Tight security in Rivers Over Fresh Plot To Impeach Governor Fubara As Lawmakers Loyal to Wike Replace Speaker
The move, intended to replace the Speaker, was met with accusations against Governor Siminialayi Fubara for allegedly withholding funds allocated for the House of Assembly’s operations in November.
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Tight security in Rivers Over Fresh Plot To Impeach Governor Fubara As Lawmakers Loyal to Wike Replace Speaker
In a display of defiance against a court order, lawmakers loyal to Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike convened a closed-door plenary session under heavy security at the Assembly Complex on Moscow Road in Port Harcourt.
The move, intended to replace the Speaker, was met with accusations against Governor Siminialayi Fubara for allegedly withholding funds allocated for the House of Assembly’s operations in November.
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The factional Speaker, Martins Amaewhule, representing Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, disclosed the alleged fund withholding during the closed-door session. This revelation came following the passage of the House of Assembly Funds Management (Financial Autonomy) Bill 2023’s second reading and a subsequent unanimous show of support from all participating lawmakers.
Addressing his colleagues, Amaewhule expressed the Assembly’s unwavering commitment to fulfilling its constitutional obligations despite what he described as distractions caused by the alleged fund withholding.
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The Speaker announced the bill’s referral to the House Committee on Public Accounts for a public hearing and further legislative scrutiny.
Moreover, the lawmakers conducted a bye-election to fill the vacant position resulting from the removal of Ehie as the Majority Leader, now replaced by Major Jack, formerly the Chief Whip. Frankline Nwabochi stepped into the role of Chief Whip, representing Akuku Toru Constituency I and Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Constituency I, respectively.
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Amaewhule congratulated the newly elected principal officers, urging them to remain steadfast in their new roles.
The developments underscore the ongoing power struggle within the Assembly and the intensifying rift between lawmakers aligned with different political factions, raising concerns about the state’s governance amidst these tumultuous events.
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