Drama Unfolds as Missing Documents Delay Case on Defected Lawmakers in Rivers State
A dramatic twist has unfolded in the Rivers State House of Assembly saga, as a Federal High Court in Port Harcourt has adjourned the case involving Martin Amaewhule and 26 other lawmakers who defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC). The reason for the adjournment? Key court documents have mysteriously gone missing from the case file.
Background of the Case
The lawsuit, filed by Rt Hon Victor Oko Jumbo, Hon. Sokari Goodboy Sokari, and Hon. Adolphus T Orubienimigha, challenges the legitimacy of Amaewhule and the others, arguing that their defections have rendered their seats vacant. The plaintiffs contend that the defendants’ actions are in violation of Section 68(1)(g) of the 1999 Constitution, which states that a lawmaker’s seat becomes vacant if they defect from the party that sponsored their election.
Missing Documents Spark Controversy
However, during the latest proceedings, Amaewhule’s lawyer, Ferdinand Orbih, revealed that critical documents supporting their defense were nowhere to be found. The defense team requested an adjournment to trace the missing files, which was granted by the court. The case will now resume on February 17, 2025, when all filed processes will be adopted.
Reactions and Speculations
This unexpected delay has raised eyebrows, with many wondering if the missing files are a deliberate attempt by Amaewhule and his colleagues to buy more time in the politically charged legal battle. Some have speculated that the disappearance of the documents may be a tactic to frustrate the legal process and delay the resolution of the case.
Political Implications
The case has significant political implications, as it could determine the fate of Amaewhule and the other defected lawmakers. If the court rules in favor of the plaintiffs, it could lead to the removal of the defendants from office and potentially alter the balance of power in the Rivers State House of Assembly.
The mysterious disappearance of key court documents has added a new layer of complexity to the already contentious case. As the drama unfolds, one thing is certain: the outcome of this case will have far-reaching implications for the political landscape of Rivers State.
