The crisis in Rivers State continues as the House of Assembly, led by Speaker Martins Amaewhule, passed three significant laws without the approval of Governor Sim Fubara. This decision has deepened tensions between the legislature and the executive in the state.
The three laws are:
- Rivers State Education (Return of Schools) (Amendment) Bill
- Rivers Electricity Market Bill
- Rivers State Commissions of Inquiry Bill 2024
These bills had been sent to Governor Fubara for his assent but were not signed. In response, the Assembly invoked Section 100(5) of the Nigerian Constitution, which allows lawmakers to override a governor’s refusal to approve legislation.
During a plenary session, Speaker Amaewhule accused Governor Fubara of acting as though he was above the Constitution. He stated that the governor’s refusal to sign the bills showed “indolence and ineptitude,” which could hold the state back. The Speaker emphasized that the Assembly acted to ensure the progress of Rivers State.
According to a statement from Amaewhule’s media aide, Martins Wachukwu, the legislative process was followed in passing the laws. The Majority Leader, Major Jack, reintroduced the bills, which were debated and approved by members of the Assembly.
The decision to bypass the governor has heightened political tensions in Rivers State. It raises concerns about the relationship between the executive and the legislature and how such conflicts may affect governance in the state.
This development shows the determination of the Assembly to exercise its constitutional powers and move forward with legislative duties despite opposition from the governor.
