The ongoing political conflict between former Governor Nyesom Wike and his successor, Governor Sim Fubara, has escalated to the legislative arm of Rivers State. The Conference of Nigeria Political Parties (CNPP) has strongly criticized the recent Appeal Court ruling regarding the defection of Rivers State Assembly lawmakers. The CNPP described the judgement as seemingly procured from the black market, designed to destabilize the state and potentially create a parallel State House of Assembly—a development deemed highly dangerous for Nigeria’s democracy.
The CNPP, representing all registered political parties and political associations in the country, expressed serious concerns and called for an end to politically influenced court verdicts, emphasizing that such practices threaten the survival of democracy in Nigeria.
In a statement signed by its Deputy National Publicity Secretary, Comrade James Ezema, the CNPP highlighted that while the Appeal Court nullified the state High Court’s ruling due to lack of jurisdiction, it did not invalidate the Rivers State House of Assembly's decision to declare the seats of the defected lawmakers vacant.
“This decision is unequivocal,” the CNPP stated. “The votes and proceedings led by the former Speaker, Edison Ehi, which declared their seats vacant, have not been nullified by any court. Therefore, the actions of the Hon. Ehi-led House in declaring the seats vacant remain valid until overturned by a court.”
The CNPP further argued that the defecting lawmakers forfeited their seats following the declaration by the House, and any attempt by them to reconvene would severely undermine the rule of law and democracy. The CNPP criticized the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for not conducting bye-elections to replace the defected lawmakers, stating that the defectors ceased to be elected representatives after violating Section 109(g) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended).
The CNPP expressed confidence that the Supreme Court would not allow itself to be used to incite political unrest and would resolve the matter promptly upon appeal. The organization also advocated for judicial reforms to enhance transparency, accountability, and adherence to established legal procedures, asserting that these reforms are essential for the judiciary to uphold its role as a pillar of democracy.
The CNPP pledged to engage citizens, civil society organizations, and the media to raise awareness about the implications of the ruling, emphasizing that an informed public is crucial for safeguarding democratic values. With the current parallel Assembly in Rivers State, the CNPP called for unity in demanding justice and respect for the rule of law. They urged all stakeholders to prioritize the interests of the people of Rivers State and uphold the principles of democracy.
“We stand united in demanding justice and respect for the rule of law,” the CNPP concluded, “and we urge all stakeholders to prioritize the interests of the people of Rivers State and uphold the principles of democracy.
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