The Court of Appeal nullifies the expulsion of pro-Wike lawmakers in Rivers State, citing jurisdictional errors. This decision rekindles political tensions between ex-governor Nyesom Wike and Governor Siminalayi Fubara over control of the state's legislative landscape.
The Court of Appeal, Abuja, has overturned the expulsion of former Rivers House of Assembly Speaker Martin Amaewhule and 24 lawmakers who defected to the APC, nullifying a previous ruling by the Rivers State High Court in Port Harcourt.
Led by Justice Jimi Olukayode-Bada, the appellate court determined that the high court lacked jurisdiction to adjudicate the matter, asserting that such disputes fall under the purview of the Federal High Court.
The appeal, filed by Amaewhule and his colleagues, challenged the restraining order issued by Charles Wali of the Port Harcourt High Court, which had prohibited them from legislative activities and interactions with Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
The initial lawsuit was brought by Victor Oko Jumbo and two other lawmakers loyal to Fubara, seeking to enforce the restraining order and invalidate legislative actions taken by Amaewhule’s faction.
The Court of Appeal's decision not only nullifies the earlier restrictions but also casts doubt on the validity of laws passed by Amaewhule's group until a final resolution is reached. The appellate court cited jurisdictional errors, emphasizing that only the Federal High Court can decide on legislative vacancies under the Constitution.
This decision rekindles a political standoff between ex-governor Nyesom Wike and Governor Siminalayi Fubara over control of Rivers State's political landscape.
