In a bold move, the Martin Amaewhule-led Rivers State House of Assembly has overridden Governor Siminialayi Fubara’s assent on three significant bills. The bills, which were initially sent to the governor for approval over a month ago, include:
– The Rivers State Education (Return of Schools) (Amendment) Bill*: aims to amend the existing education law in Rivers State, ensuring alignment with modern standards.
– The Rivers Electricity Market Bill*: focuses on regulating the electricity market in Rivers State, providing a framework for generation, transmission, and distribution.
-The Rivers State Commissions of Inquiry Bill, 2024*: establishes guidelines for commissions of inquiry in Rivers State, ensuring fairness, transparency, and accountability.
Lawmakers loyal to Minister Nyesom Wike made the decision to override the governor’s assent after he withheld approval, citing Section 100(5) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999, which empowers the House to override the governor’s veto.
The Speaker, Martin Amaewhule, criticized Fubara, accusing him of indolence and ineptitude, and stressing that the governor cannot hold the state back. Amaewhule described Fubara as someone who sees himself above the Constitution, judiciary, and state laws.
The House’s decision has been confirmed by the Speaker’s media aide, Martins Wachukwu, and the three laws are now in effect in Rivers State.
