In a development highlighting the ongoing rift between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the Rivers State House of Assembly, a majority of lawmakers enacted a new law without the governor’s assent on Friday.
The newly passed law, titled the Rivers State House of Assembly Service Commission Amendment Law, saw 24 out of 27 lawmakers, reportedly loyal to Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, present during an emergency plenary, overriding the Governor’s decision.
During the session, House Majority Leader Hon Major Jack noted that the bill, sent to the Governor on February 19, 2024, remained unsigned even after 30 days, as per constitutional requirement.
Following a debate, invoking Section 100 (5) of the Constitution, the Assembly voted to override the governor’s decision, with 24 members in favor, none against, and none abstaining, exceeding the constitutional threshold.
This marks the second instance of Pro-Wike lawmakers bypassing the state governor, following a similar move in January when four laws were enacted after the governor’s refusal to assent.
The new law grants the House of Assembly authority to appoint a Chairman and members of the Assembly Service Commission, elevates the Clerk to the status of the State Head of Service, and places the Deputy Clerk and Secretary of the Assembly Service Commission at par with Permanent Secretaries in the State Civil Service.
