In a significant development for the political landscape of Rivers State, the Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Victor Oko-Jumbo, has formally urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to organize a bye-election to fill the 27 vacant seats left by defected members of the assembly. This call comes in the wake of a recent legal ruling that has removed the previous impediment preventing INEC from conducting such elections, signaling a new chapter in the state’s legislative dynamics.
During a press conference held in Port Harcourt, Oko-Jumbo emphasized the urgency of this request, noting that the vacancies arose when 27 lawmakers, led by Martin Chike Amaewhule, chose to defect from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) on December 11, 2023. He articulated the concern that their defection lacked justifiable cause, adding that these political maneuvers disrupt the stability of governance in Rivers State.
The speaker drew attention to a critical legal barrier that had previously hindered INEC’s ability to conduct bye-elections. The impediment, identified as an interlocutory injunction, had restrained INEC from proceeding with the elections until the matter was resolved in court. However, with the striking out of Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/1681/2023, Oko-Jumbo asserted that this legal obstacle has been lifted, thus allowing INEC the freedom to organize the necessary elections.
Oko-Jumbo’s remarks come at a time when the political atmosphere in Rivers State has become increasingly contentious. The departure of these members from the PDP, a party that has traditionally held a strong foothold in the state, raises questions about the future political balance and representation in the House of Assembly. The Speaker’s call for immediate action from INEC underscores the need for accountability and the restoration of full legislative functionality following the mass defections.
In his address, the Speaker reiterated the importance of filling these vacant seats swiftly, as prolonged vacancies could lead to legislative gridlock and hinder essential governance processes. He framed the bye-elections not only as a constitutional necessity but also as a means of reinstating the public’s trust in the democratic process and ensuring that all constituencies in Rivers State are duly represented in the assembly.
In conclusion, Rt. Hon. Victor Oko-Jumbo’s appeal to INEC reflects a critical moment for Rivers State as it navigates through the challenges of political realignments following the recent defections. The next steps taken by INEC will be watched closely, as they could significantly influence the political landscape and governance in Rivers State in the months to come. As the situation unfolds, the call for bye-elections reaffirms the necessity for democratic principles and the representation of the electorate’s voice in the assembly.
