Oko Jumbo-Led House Threatens to Send Amaewhule to Kirikiri Prison Amidst Rivers Assembly Crisis
Port Harcourt, Rivers State – The leadership crisis rocking the Rivers State House of Assembly took a dramatic turn yesterday as the Oko Jumbo-led faction threatened to send Martin Amaewhule to Kirikiri Prison.
The threat comes after Amaewhule’s faction obtained a court ruling declaring Oko Jumbo an imposter and a suspended member of the Assembly. The Appeal Court’s decision granted relief to Amaewhule and 25 other lawmakers.
Background
The crisis began when the Court of Appeal nullified the N800 billion 2024 Appropriation Bill presented by Governor Fubara to a parallel House led by Edison Ehie. The pro-Wike faction, led by Amaewhule, subsequently declared the seats of four pro-Fubara lawmakers, including Oko Jumbo, vacant due to absenteeism.
Reasons for the Threat
The Oko Jumbo-led faction cited the following reasons for the threat:
1. Contempt of Court: Amaewhule’s faction allegedly disobeyed a court order recognizing Oko Jumbo as Speaker.
2. Impersonation: Oko Jumbo’s faction claims Amaewhule is impersonating the Speaker.
Reactions from Stakeholders
“We won’t tolerate impunity,” said Victor Oko Jumbo, Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly. “Amaewhule will face the consequences of his actions.”
“This is a joke,” countered Martin Amaewhule. “Oko Jumbo is the one impersonating the Speaker.”
Implications
The crisis has significant implications for Rivers State:
1. Governance: The leadership crisis may impact governance and policy implementation.
2. Constitutional Implications: The ongoing crisis raises questions about defection and its effects on lawmakers’ seats.
3. Economic Development: The N800 billion 2024 Appropriation Bill’s nullification may affect infrastructure projects.
