When Wike and his people knew they were failing, they now made another arrangement for Amarwhule - Edwin Clark
Wisdom Tide
07/07/2024
In a recent report by The Punch, Elder Statesman and National Leader of the Pan-Niger Delta Forum, Chief Edwin Clark, offered a critical analysis of the political dynamics in Rivers State, particularly targeting the actions of former Governor Nyesom Wike and his supporters. Chief Clark condemned their attempts to manipulate the political landscape following their unsuccessful efforts to maintain control.
Chief Clark revealed that when Wike and his allies sensed the failure of their political strategies, they resorted to a collaboration with Amawhule and other lawmakers. Their aim was to contest in court, asserting that certain members had not defected from the People's Democratic Party (PDP) and were still active members. However, this legal maneuver did not yield the desired outcome.
"The truth is that when Wike and his supporters recognized their imminent failure, they orchestrated a plan involving Amawhule and his associates in the House to file a court claim that these members had not left the PDP and were still affiliated with the party," Chief Clark explained.
According to Clark, the judge presiding over the case declared that the court lacked the necessary jurisdiction, effectively nullifying any decisions that followed. "The judge informed them that he had no jurisdiction. Consequently, any decision made by the judge thereafter was inconsequential," he stated, highlighting the ineffectiveness of the legal proceedings initiated by Wike's supporters.
Chief Clark further criticized the extension of the tenure of local government chairmen by individuals who were no longer officially recognized as members of the House. He argued that such actions were devoid of legitimacy and authority. "At the time these individuals extended the tenure of the local government chairmen, they were no longer members of the House. It is unacceptable to confer authority on someone who is not officially in a position to do so," he asserted, emphasizing that those without official status should not have the power to make such decisions.
Clark's critique did not end there. He accused Wike and his faction of attempting to undermine the political stability of Rivers State by engaging in such unlawful tactics. He noted that these actions were not only legally questionable but also morally indefensible, as they sought to exploit legal loopholes to maintain political influence.
Furthermore, Chief Clark lamented the broader implications of these actions on the democratic process in Rivers State. He stressed that the rule of law and respect for legitimate political processes were being eroded by such maneuvers. "The actions of Wike and his supporters represent a direct affront to the principles of democracy and the rule of law. Their attempts to subvert the judicial process for political gain are a grave disservice to the people of Rivers State," he remarked.
Chief Clark also called on the relevant authorities to ensure that those responsible for these actions are held accountable. He urged the judiciary to remain steadfast in upholding the law and not be swayed by political pressures. "It is imperative that the judiciary remains impartial and committed to justice. Those who seek to manipulate the legal system for political purposes must be held accountable for their actions," he said.
In conclusion, Chief Clark's statements shed light on the contentious political climate in Rivers State and the lengths to which certain factions are willing to go to retain power. His call for accountability and adherence to the rule of law underscores the need for a more transparent and just political process in the region
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