In a recent ruling by the Rivers State Court, Port Harcourt Division, Justice Charles Wali issued the order in case PHC/1512/CS/2024. This case was brought to court by Victor Oko Jumbo and two other legislators loyal to Governor Siminalayi Fubara, with the latter, the state Attorney General and the state Chief Justice as respondents.
The order of interlocutory injunction issued by Justice Wali, as reported by Channels TV, states that: “An interim order is granted restraining the 1st to 25th respondents from presenting themselves and impersonating themselves as members of the Assembly of Rivers State and/or to assemble/sit at the Auditorium of the Assembly Headquarters located on Old Aba Road, Port Harcourt or any other place to purport to carry out legislative duties of the Rivers State House of Assembly as their legislative positions were declared vacant pending the hearing and determination of the main case.
Another order of interim injunction is also issued restraining the 26th to 28th defendants from dealing with, interfering with, agreeing to any resolutions, bills and/or in any way interacting with the 1st to 25th Defendants in their alleged capacity as members of the Rivers State House of Assembly.”
This decision results in the legislative positions of the respondents being declared vacant, with effect from December 13, 2023. The vacuum thus created in the Rivers State House of Assembly has significant implications on the functioning of the institution and on the political landscape of the state.
The impact of this legal decision cannot be underestimated, as it raises fundamental questions about the region’s political stability and respect for the rule of law. Further developments in this matter could have lasting and significant repercussions on the governance of Rivers State.
This judgment highlights the importance of judicial independence and respect for court decisions to ensure a strong democratic system and transparent governance. It is now up to political and judicial actors to respect and implement this decision with complete transparency and respect for democratic principles.