Edwin Clark Calls for Police Investigation into Alleged Oath Misuse by Martins Amaewhule and Lawmakers
By Wisdom Tide
November 7, 2024
Chief Edwin Clarke, a former Federal Commissioner for Information and leader of the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF), has requested a formal police investigation into allegations against Martins Amaewhule, the former Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, and other lawmakers. The call, directed to the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, centers around accusations that these lawmakers misused their oaths by providing contradictory statements under oath to shift their political allegiance.
Alleged Contradictions and Misuse of Oath
Clark's request follows reports that Amaewhule and his colleagues allegedly manipulated their sworn statements to influence a legal dispute regarding political affiliation. The accusations indicate that the lawmakers shifted their loyalty between the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and other parties, a move Clark denounces as fraudulent.
In a public statement from Abuja, Clark criticized the lawmakers' actions, specifically calling out Amaewhule for allegedly engaging in deceitful conduct to sway the outcome of a case involving the Rivers State House of Assembly. Clark also expressed disapproval over recent judicial rulings by Justice James Omotoso and the Court of Appeal, which he described as “obtained by fraud.”
Violation of Constitutional Mandates
Clark argued that Amaewhule and his fellow legislators, who reportedly defected from the PDP to the All Progressives Congress (APC) on December 11, 2023, violated the Nigerian Constitution. He cited Section 109(1)(g) of the 1999 Constitution, which requires that a legislator forfeits their seat upon defection from their elected party. Clark stated that this defection undermines the integrity of Nigeria’s legal and political frameworks and compromises the principle of fairness within the Assembly.
Concern Over Judicial Interference and INEC’s Role
Further, Clark voiced his concern over a recent decision by Justice Okorowo, who allegedly barred the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from filling the seats of the defected lawmakers. Clark urged a comprehensive investigation into the possibility of perjury, stressing the need for honesty in legal testimony and the broader importance of ethical political practices.
Criticism of the Court of Appeal's Handling of the Case
In addition to calling for the investigation, Clark criticized the Court of Appeal’s management of the case, questioning the transparency and impartiality of the court's review. According to Clark, the rulings have compromised justice, and only through thorough scrutiny will the truth about the lawmakers' defection and its legal implications be revealed.
By seeking an impartial investigation, Clark hopes to uncover any unlawful actions and reinforce the commitment to justice and accountability in Nigeria’s legislative and judicial systems
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