A Rivers State High Court in Port Harcourt has ruled that 27 members of the Rivers State House of Assembly, who were reported to have defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC), remain members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Justice Okogbule Gbasam stated on Monday that the claimants failed to provide sufficient evidence that Martin Amaewhule and the 26 other legislators had actually switched to the APC. He emphasized that party membership must be proven through official documentation, such as being on the party’s register or having a membership card, and that televised events or verbal declarations do not constitute proof.
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The PDP had sought to be included in the case and was admitted as the fourth defendant. Justice Gbasam underscored that the Rivers State government must comply with all laws enacted by the Assembly since the legislators are still recognized as PDP members, with their party membership confirmed by the official register.
Additionally, he reiterated that the state government is required to follow the laws passed by the Assembly, as the members have not forfeited their positions and remain part of the PDP.
