The political landscape of the Rivers State House of Assembly is in turmoil, with some members declaring their seats vacant. At the heart of the situation is the faction led by Martin Amaewhule, who declared the seats of members close to Governor Fubara as vacant due to their prolonged absence from legislative meetings, without valid justification.
The move, taken during a turbulent plenary session, follows tensions surrounding Governor Fubara’s 2024 budget proposal. Despite calls to present the budget to the Amaewhule-led House, it has met with obstacles and controversies, fuelling dissension within the House.
The debate on the declaration of the vacant seats has highlighted the democratic challenges and the accountability of the people’s representatives. Members of the House have expressed support for the motion, stressing the importance of active and regular participation of elected members in legislative sessions.
Martin Amaewhule recalled the efforts made to restore political stability in the state, including through mediations and judicial decisions. Despite these initiatives, the persistent absence of the members in question justified their dismissal, according to the constitutional provisions.
This situation underlines the importance of respect for democratic institutions and the commitment of political leaders to their functions. The voters in the affected constituencies find themselves deprived of their representation, an aspect that should not be taken lightly in a democratic system.
Finally, the involvement of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to organize by-elections to fill the vacant seats is a testament to the will to restore the fullness of legislative powers within the Assembly.
In a complex and changing political context, the separation of powers and the democratic functioning of institutions are being put to the test. It is essential that political actors demonstrate responsibility and commitment to democracy and the general interest.