The Court of Appeal, Abuja division, upheld Martin Amaewhule as the recognized Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly on Thursday. A three-member panel unanimously dismissed Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s appeal for lacking merit.
The appellate court affirmed the Federal High Court’s January 22 judgment, delivered by Justice James Omotosho. The judgment nullified the 2024 N800 million Rivers State budget, “Budget of Renewed Hope,” citing non-presentation to the State Assembly as required by law.
Governor Fubara was admonished for disregarding the rule of law. Presenting the 2024 Rivers State Appropriation Bill to only four of 31 Assembly members constituted a “gross violation” of the 1999 Constitution.
Additionally, Fubara’s withdrawal of his counter-affidavit in a suit filed by Amaewhule-led lawmakers was deemed an agreement with their claims.
The court’s decision solidifies Amaewhule’s position as Speaker, emphasizing the importance of adherence to constitutional requirements in governance.
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