The Rivers State House of Assembly has raised concerns over multiple constitutional infractions allegedly committed by Governor Siminalayi Fubara, particularly in the appointment of individuals into key government positions without legislative approval.
In a resolution reached during the 131st Legislative Day of the Second Session of the 10th Assembly, the lawmakers strongly criticized the governor for bypassing due process in appointing members of the State Executive Council, the Bureau on Public Procurement, and the Local Government Service Commission.
According to the Assembly, several individuals were sworn in as commissioners and public officials without undergoing the required screening and confirmation by the House, in direct violation of the 1999 Constitution and other extant laws.
Among those affected are Prince Charles O. Beke, Collins Onunwo, Solomon Eke, and Peter Mede, who were appointed as commissioners on May 21, 2024, without legislative approval.
Similar infractions were recorded on August 13, October 7, and July 8, 2024, bringing the total number of illegally appointed officials to 19.
The House also condemned the governor’s decision to appoint Mr. Dagogo Iboroma as a member of the State Executive Council instead of forwarding a nominee for the position of Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice for screening.
The legislators argued that this move contravenes Sections 192(2) & (6) and 195(1) of the 1999 Constitution.
Additionally, the lawmakers pointed to irregularities in the appointment of members of the Rivers State Bureau on Public Procurement and the Rivers State Local Government Service Commission, insisting that these actions pose a serious threat to democracy.
As part of its resolutions, the House has issued a 48-hour ultimatum to the governor, demanding that he submit a list of nominees for appointment as commissioners in compliance with the law.
The legislators warned that failure to adhere to constitutional provisions could lead to further legislative action.
Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Martin Chike Amaewhule, signed the resolution, urging the governor to act swiftly in the best interest of the people of Rivers State.
The letter was also copied to the Deputy Governor, Prof. Ngozi Odu, emphasizing the urgency of the matter.
As tensions rise between the executive and legislative arms of government, political observers are keenly watching how Governor Fubara will respond to the Assembly’s demands.
