In a dramatic turn of events, authorities in Rivers state on Wednesday demolished the Rivers State House of Assembly, with the reasons behind this drastic move yet to be disclosed. Speculations suggest a connection to the recent turmoil that has gripped the legislative body.
Video clips online show bulldozers bringing down parts of the assembly building as shocked residents looked on.
Commissioner for Information Joseph Johnson said the decision to demolish the structure was due to the “structural defects” which arose as a result of a recent fire incident.
A new structure will be constructed, he said. Johnson said the “government had tried all cost saving measures towards repair of the complex until it bowed to superior view of rebuilding the complex to a more befitting edifice.”
The government said it has provided an alternative facility for the lawmakers to carry out their functions. Gov Fubara later presented the state’s N800 billion budget for 2024 at the new venue.
Fighting on
The assembly has witnessed strife since late October, dividing into two factions after an attempt to impeach Gov. Fubara. This led to a section of the assembly complex being set alight. The split was a result of the political clash between Governor Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, who is now the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
Martin Amaewhule heads the 27-member faction loyal to Mr. Wike, while Edison Ehie, a former leader removed for refusing to endorse Governor Fubara’s impeachment, emerged as the speaker of the faction loyal to the governor. The two factions have been holding parallel sittings at different locations in Port Harcourt.
On Monday, the crisis intensified as the Wike-backed faction announced their defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC), prompting the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to call for their seats to be declared vacant and fresh elections conducted.
To solidify his leadership after the defection of Mr. Amaewhule’s faction, Mr Ehie obtained a court order on Tuesday allowing his faction to conduct legislative business without interference.
Justice M.W. Danagogo issued a restraining order against Martin Amaewhule and Dumle Maol. The order prohibits them from parading themselves or interfering with the activities of Rt. Hon. Edison Ogerenye Ehie, recognized as the Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly.
Justice Danagogo, in an experte motion, warned against the use of thugs and police officers to forcefully gain access to the premises of the Rivers State House of Assembly Complex.
*This is a developing story and will be updated as we receive additional information.
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