Toba Owojaiye reporting
Abuja, Nigeria
The Supreme Court of Nigeria has dismissed the appeal filed by Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State, challenging the leadership of the Rivers State House of Assembly under Speaker Martin Amaewhule.
Truth Live News gathered that a five-man panel of the apex court, led by Justice Uwani Abba-Aji, ruled that the appeal had been overtaken by events.
Also Governor Fubara, through his legal team led by Prof. Yusuf Ali (SAN), officially withdrew the case, citing Order 11, Rules 14 of the Supreme Court Rules 2024.
The legal battle stems from a deep political rift between Governor Fubara and his predecessor, now Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike. The conflict intensified last year when a faction of the Rivers State House of Assembly, loyal to Wike and led by Amaewhule, attempted to assert control over legislative affairs, passing key bills and overriding the governor’s decisions.
In response, Fubara’s supporters declared Amaewhule and his faction illegitimate, recognizing Rt. Hon. Ehie Ogerenye Edison as the rightful Speaker. This led to parallel legislative activities, fueling a constitutional crisis.
With the case withdrawn, the Supreme Court struck out the appeal, solidifying Amaewhule’s leadership of the Assembly. The ruling effectively hands legislative control to Wike’s camp, dealing a blow to Fubara’s attempts to assert authority.
This decision further shifts the balance of power to favor the wile camp.
