The Rivers State Caucus in the House of Representatives has thrown its weight behind Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the Victor Oko-Jumbo-led faction of the state’s House of Assembly, rejecting claims made by the Martin Amaewhule faction.
The caucus, led by Rep. Awaji-Inombek D. Abiante, expressed concern over a press conference held by some Rivers State National Assembly members, who supported Amaewhule.
The lawmakers accused the National Assembly members of spreading falsehoods regarding the status of the Rivers House of Assembly.
“It thus becomes necessary on our part to set the records straight and put the public in proper perspective, because lies unrebutted soon overtake the truth,” Abiante stated.
He clarified that following court rulings, Amaewhule and 26 others lost their seats after defecting from the Assembly on December 11, 2023.
“As of 11th December 2023, they became former members,” Abiante added, asserting that the judgment of January 22, 2024, did not address their defection or status as former lawmakers.
The caucus further defended Governor Fubara’s adherence to the Nigerian Constitution and the Rule of Law, emphasizing that he has never disrespected the courts.
Oko-Jumbo, the factional Speaker of the Assembly, thanked the Reps Caucus for their support. “Our duty is to make laws for our people. And that is what we focus on,” he said, reaffirming the Assembly’s commitment to supporting Fubara’s government in fulfilling its mandate for the people of Rivers State.