A leaked draft of a court order by Justice Donatus Okorowo of the Federal High Court, Abuja, has emerged, further escalating the already volatile tension in Rivers State.
The document, purportedly written in response to an application filed by lawmakers loyal to Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FTC) Nyesom Wike, is slated for delivery on Monday, December 18, 2023.
Among other things, the order reportedly seeks to shield the lawmakers as they initiate an impeachment process against Governor Siminalayi Fubara. This development comes amidst a bitter political rivalry between Wike and Fubara.
Last week, 27 lawmakers, previously aligned with the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), switched to the All Progressives Congress (APC). This move was met with swift action from Governor Fubara’s camp, with legislators loyal to him declaring the defectors’ seats vacant.
The State High Court in Port Harcourt on Tuesday gave a similar order allowing for the four-member Rivers House of Assembly backed by Fubara to hold legislative business without interference
It was also in the week that the state government ordered the demolition of the assembly complex, citing concerns about structural defects.
By Daniel Daniel
