Rivers State witnessed heightened political drama on Thursday as suspended lawmakers loyal to former Governor Nyesom Wike overrode the assent of Governor Siminialayi Fubara to enact three critical bills into law. The suspended lawmakers took this action during its 94th legislative sitting, citing constitutional authority under Section 100(5) of the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria, as amended.
The bills in question—the Rivers State Education (Return of Schools) (Amendment) Bill, the Rivers Electricity Market Bill, and the Rivers State Commissions of Inquiry Bill, 2024—had been transmitted to Governor Fubara over a month ago for assent. However, the governor withheld his approval, prompting lawmakers to invoke their constitutional powers to override his decision.
Legislative Boldness The bills were reintroduced by the Majority Leader, Hon. Major Jack, and after robust debate, Speaker of the House Rt. Hon. Martin Chike Amaewhule put the matter to a vote. The members of the Assembly unanimously supported overriding the governor’s veto, asserting that the laws were essential for the state’s progress
In his remarks, Speaker Amaewhule expressed frustration with Governor Fubara’s refusal to assent to the bills, describing the governor’s actions as a sign of “indolence and ineptitude.” He stressed that the Assembly was determined to ensure the state’s legislative and developmental agenda would not be stalled.
“The state cannot be held hostage by Governor Fubara’s failure to act,” Amaewhule declared. “By virtue of Section 100(5) of the Constitution, these laws are now in force, and the Rivers State House of Assembly will continue to stand firm in upholding the Constitution and democratic principles.”
This latest move underscores a growing rift between Governor Fubara and lawmakers aligned with his predecessor, Nyesom Wike. Speaker Amaewhule criticized Fubara’s perceived disregard for constitutional provisions, accusing the governor of attempting to position himself above the law. The Speaker also reiterated the Assembly’s commitment to the welfare of Rivers State citizens, promising that the legislature would continue to sit and pass laws aimed at advancing the state, regardless of executive resistance.
The three bills are as follows:
1. Rivers State Education (Return of Schools) (Amendment) Bill: Aims to address education reforms, including the management and ownership of schools in the state.
2. Rivers Electricity Market Bill: Seeks to regulate the electricity sector within the state, fostering growth and efficiency in energy distribution.
3. Rivers State Commissions of Inquiry Bill, 2024: Establishes frameworks for inquiries into public matters, promoting transparency and accountability. Advertisements Next Steps With the bills now considered law, the focus shifts to their implementation. However, the political showdown between the executive and legislative arms in Rivers State signals potential turbulence ahead. Analysts suggest that the override could deepen tensions and set the stage for further confrontations in the state’s political arena. The Rivers State House of Assembly has made it clear that it will not relent in its legislative duties, promising to uphold the principles of democracy and the rule of law.