The Federal High Court in Port Harcourt has adjourned until January 21, 2025, for a ruling on applications in a case filed by the Labour Party (LP). The suit seeks to declare vacant the seats of 27 Rivers State House of Assembly members who allegedly defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The LP, through its caretaker committee chairperson in Rivers State, Hilda Dokubo, is challenging the legality of the lawmakers’ defection. The party contends that their actions contravene electoral laws and is urging the court to mandate the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to conduct by-elections for the affected seats.
Courtroom Proceedings
During Wednesday’s proceedings, the defendants, including Assembly Speaker Martin Amaewhule, requested the consolidation of their applications. Represented by Ferdinand Orbih (SAN), they argued for judicial efficiency in addressing the case.
However, LP counsel Clifford Chukwu opposed the motion, citing the defendants’ failure to file a counter-affidavit. “Failure to file a counter-affidavit amounts to admission of all facts stated in the claimant’s counter-affidavit,” he said.
Justice Emmanuel Obele, presiding over the matter, announced January 21, 2025, as the date for ruling on the consolidated applications.
Statements Outside Court
Chukwu reaffirmed the LP’s stance, asserting that the defecting lawmakers publicly declared their move through media outlets. He noted, “We have video evidence and affidavits confirming their defection. These lawmakers must vacate their seats to allow by-elections where all parties, including the Labour Party, can participate.”
Related Case
In a separate but related case, Justice Obele is also hearing a suit filed by three lawmakers loyal to Governor Siminalayi Fubara. These lawmakers are seeking the removal of the same 27 pro-Wike Assembly members. The court has scheduled December 10, 2024, to deliberate on this matter.
The outcomes of these cases could significantly reshape the political landscape of the Rivers State House of Assembly.