An Appeal Court in Port Harcourt is poised to issue a critical ruling today, Friday, June 14, 2024, concerning a legal challenge brought by Martin Amaewhule and twenty-six co-petitioners against a decision by the Rivers State High Court that upheld Victor Oko-Jumbo as Speaker of the State House of Assembly.
The dispute stems from a previous ruling by Justice Dagogo Jack of the State High Court, which sided with Oko-Jumbo, thereby preventing Amaewhule and his colleagues from carrying out their legislative duties and nullifying their positions as Speaker and Assembly members.
Moreover, an interlocutory injunction was imposed against Amaewhule’s faction, prompting their appeal to the higher court.
During proceedings on Thursday, a three-judge panel led by Justice Jimi Olukayode-Bada heard arguments from both parties and signaled their readiness to deliver a verdict. They directed all legal representatives to be present in court by 9 a.m. today.
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Should the Appeal Court rule in favor of Amaewhule, it would validate all laws and bills passed by him and his fellow lawmakers, reinstating their ability to resume legislative functions. Notably, the lawmakers involved are aligned with the interests of FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, adding political complexity to the case.
