Rivers: Court to rule on LP suit against pro-Wike lawmakers January 2025

The Federal High Court in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, has scheduled January 21, 2025, to deliver its ruling on a suit filed by Labour Party candidates and pro-Fubara lawmakers against the Rivers State House of Assembly and 27 lawmakers led by Martin Amaewhule.

The plaintiffs are challenging the alleged defection of 27 lawmakers from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), seeking the court’s interpretation of their actions under the law. They argue that the defecting lawmakers should vacate their seats to enable the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to conduct bye-elections.

Key Points

• Case Background: The 27 lawmakers, loyal to Minister Nyesom Wike, defected from PDP to APC following a rift with Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
• Plaintiffs’ Argument: The defecting lawmakers should vacate their seats, enabling INEC to conduct bye-elections.
• Court Proceedings: Parties confirmed the exchange of pleadings and evidence, presenting arguments on preliminary legal points.
• Next Steps: Presiding Judge Emmanuel Obele adjourned for a ruling on preliminary issues.