Rivers Crises: Constitution of Nigeria Stated That Lawmakers Forfeited Their Seats - Dr. Iroegbunam
Dave Ikiedei Asei
05/07/2024
The National Democratic Coalition (NDC) has expressed strong disapproval following the Appeal Court's decision to reinstate 24 members of the Rivers State House of Assembly. According to the Daily Post, a state high court in Port Harcourt had previously barred 25 Assembly members who defected from the People's Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) from presenting themselves as legislators on May 30, 2024.
However, the Assembly members, led by Martin Amaewhule, challenged the High Court's decision. On Thursday, July 4, the Appeal Court overturned the High Court's order. A three-member panel of the Appeal Court declared that the lower court should not have granted the ex parte order.
The NDC, represented by its Executive Director Dr. Samson Iroegbunam, voiced significant discontent with the ruling.
In a statement to the Daily Post, Dr. Iroegbunam asserted, "The Constitution of Nigeria is very clear on the issue of defection. Lawmakers who defect from the party under which they were elected are deemed to have forfeited their seats. This is to maintain political stability and respect for the electorate's choice."
Dr. Iroegbunam criticized the Appeal Court's decision, describing it as a setback for the rule of law and democratic principles. "This ruling undermines the integrity of our democratic institutions. The judiciary should uphold the Constitution rather than bend to political pressures," he added.
Dr. Iroegbunam's statement highlighted the political implications of the ruling, emphasizing the significant influence wielded by Nyesom Wike, the former governor of Rivers State, who is widely regarded as one of the most influential political figures in Nigeria today.
The NDC's dissatisfaction with Wike's conduct was apparent in Dr. Iroegbunam's comments. "If you look at the current political landscape, after the President, some would argue that Wike is the most influential figure. However, his recent actions are concerning. His flamboyant behavior on social media and his engagement in various controversies are unbecoming of a leader of his stature," he said.
The controversy surrounding the reinstatement of the 24 lawmakers has sparked a broader debate about the integrity of the judicial process and the adherence to constitutional principles. Many legal experts and political analysts have weighed in on the issue, expressing concerns about the potential implications for Nigeria's democracy.
Prof. Adedayo Oladipo, a constitutional law expert, explained, "The Constitution clearly states that elected officials who defect from their party must vacate their seats. This provision is designed to prevent political opportunism and ensure that the electorate's mandate is respected. The Appeal Court's decision to reinstate the lawmakers sets a dangerous precedent and could encourage further political instability."
Similarly, political analyst Dr. Amina Yusuf warned that the ruling could erode public confidence in the judiciary. "The judiciary is supposed to be the guardian of the Constitution. When it appears to be influenced by political considerations, it undermines the rule of law and democracy. The Appeal Court's decision is troubling and raises questions about the impartiality of our judicial system," she stated.
The reinstated lawmakers have defended their actions, arguing that their defection was in response to legitimate grievances with the PDP leadership. Martin Amaewhule, the leader of the reinstated lawmakers, maintained that their decision to join the APC was driven by the need to align with the political aspirations of their constituents.
"We were elected to serve the people, and our decision to defect was in their best interest. The PDP leadership has failed to address our concerns, and we believe that the APC offers a better platform to deliver on our promises," Amaewhule asserted.
As the debate continues, many are calling for a thorough review of the judicial process and a reaffirmation of the principles enshrined in the Nigerian Constitution. The NDC has vowed to pursue all legal avenues to ensure that the rule of law is upheld and that lawmakers who defect are held accountable.
Dr. Iroegbunam concluded, "We will not rest until justice is served. The Constitution must be upheld, and those who undermine it must be held accountable. This is not just about the reinstatement of 24 lawmakers; it is about the future of our democracy
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