In Rivers State, the political turmoil continues as 25 lawmakers remain ousted despite a recent Court of Appeal ruling. The court determined that the Federal High Court has the jurisdiction to decide on the legality of the House of Assembly seat vacancies, following alleged illegal defections from the PDP to the APC.
However, the appeal did not address the core issue of the defections. Pro-Fubara representatives, led by Ikenga Ugochinyere, assert that the lawmakers’ removal stands and caution against political manipulation.
The Court of Appeal’s judgment has added another layer of complexity to the political crisis in Rivers State. The sacked lawmakers had appealed their removal, arguing that their defection was legal.
However, the appellate court focused on the procedural aspect, ruling that the Federal High Court is the appropriate forum to handle such disputes.
Ikenga Ugochinyere, speaking for the pro-Fubara faction, emphasized that the court’s decision does not reinstate the lawmakers but rather clarifies the jurisdictional authority. Ugochinyere and his colleagues are determined to uphold the lawmakers’ removal, which they argue is justified by the illegal defection.
This ruling underscores the ongoing legal battles and political strategies at play in Rivers State. The case highlights the tension between different political factions and the importance of judicial interpretation in resolving electoral disputes.
The situation in Rivers State remains unresolved, with the sacked lawmakers continuing to seek legal redress. The pro-Fubara representatives’ insistence on maintaining the status quo adds to the uncertainty and complexity of the political landscape in the state.
As the case progresses, all eyes will be on the Federal High Court to provide a definitive ruling on the matter.
