In the on-going political tension in Rivers State, the Martin Amaewhule-led Rivers State House of Assembly has declared the seats of four pro-Fubara lawmakers, including Edison Ehie, Chief of Staff to Governor Siminalayi Fubara, vacant.
This decision was taken during plenary on Tuesday following their prolonged absence from legislative activities.
Speaker Amaewhule explained that Edison Ehie, who was appointed Chief of Staff by Governor Fubara, failed to formally notify the House of his new position. As a result, his seat was declared vacant for non-compliance with legislative procedures.
In addition to Ehie, the Assembly also voted to vacate the seats of three other lawmakers, including Victor Oko-Jumbo, citing absenteeism. The lawmakers were absent from sittings for 152 consecutive days without permission or official communication, a violation of the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria, which mandates consistent participation in legislative duties.
The House also resolved to notify the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to organize elections within 90 days to fill the vacant seats, ensuring representation for the affected constituencies.
Furthermore, the Assembly agreed to give Governor Fubara another opportunity to present the 2024 Appropriations Bill. This follows the recent Appeal Court ruling which nullified the N800 billion budget he had initially presented to a parallel assembly faction led by Edison Ehie.
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