By Oluwatosin Maliki
In a dramatic turn of events, 26 members of the Rivers State House of Assembly have taken the decisive step of suspending the incumbent Speaker, Rt. Hon. Martins Amaehwule.
This political upheaval unfolded against the backdrop of a serious crisis that engulfed the assembly on Monday, triggered by the controversial attempt by some lawmakers to impeach the state’s governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara.
The turmoil that ensued reached its zenith with the shocking destruction of the revered legislative chambers on Sunday night. In the wake of these disturbing events, the state assembly premises found itself under tight security lockdown, as heavily armed personnel cordoned off the area.
In an extraordinary session held within the Government House, Port Harcourt, the House convened to address the pressing matter. During this session, the assembly made a historic decision by electing and inaugurating a new Speaker, Edison Ehie, to lead them forward.
In his inaugural address to the press, Speaker Edison vowed to uphold the principles of justice and fairness in the legislative process, thus setting a new tone for the state’s political landscape.
He said: “The House just rose from plenary and with all humility I must thank my colleagues, 26 Assembly members, who have just elected me as the new Speaker of the 10th Rivers State House of Assembly.
“My commitment to Rivers people is that I will be just and fair to all and sundry. And I will ensure that the rule of law takes its course.
“I will not betray my colleagues and Rivers people and I will not betray my constituency.
“I will also ensure the independence of the Rivers State House of Assembly is adhered to, with mutual respect to the judiciary and executive arms.
“Everything due my colleagues as honourable members, constitutionally will be given to them. The honourable members that have been suspended will also be given a fair hearing.
“The Committee of Information will publish the names of those suspended. The House has also urged the Committee on Petitions to give them a fair hearing.
“The House has adjourned sine die because the Parliamentary Association of Nigeria has served us a notice of indefinite strike from Abuja. So we cannot sit again.
“It means any sitting can’t hold water. The court is there; if you are aggrieved should approach the court.”