The crisis in Rivers State appears to be ongoing, as the House of Assembly, led by Speaker Martins Amaewhule, has enacted three laws without the approval of Governor Sim Fubara. The Assembly bypassed Fubara to pass these laws. During a session, the factional Speaker stated that Fubara considers himself above Nigeria’s constitution. The bills in question include the Rivers State Education (Return of Schools) (Amendment) Bill, the Rivers Electricity Market Bill, and the Rivers State Commissions of Inquiry Bill 2024. The lawmakers asserted that their actions comply with Section 100(5) of the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria, as amended, and aim to promote legislative positivism for the benefit of the people of Rivers. The bills had previously been passed and sent to Fubara for his approval. A statement from Amaewhule’s Special Assistant on Media, Martins Wachukwu, confirmed that the lawmakers had adhered to legislative procedures to establish the laws following Fubara’s decision to withhold his assent. The statement added that the House Majority Leader, Major Jack, reintroduced the bills for discussion among members. Amaewhule referenced Section 100(5) of the 1999 Constitution as the basis for the House’s authority to override the governor when he refuses assent. He argued that the governor should not hinder the state’s progress due to his laziness and incompetence, asserting the necessity for the state to advance. Amaewhule criticized Fubara as someone who believes he is above the Constitution, the judiciary, and other laws in the state.
