Breaking News: Rivers State High Court throws Out suit to sack 27 Rivers lawmakers over defection
Delivering a crucial judgement in Port Harcourt, Justice Okogbule Gbasam of the Rivers State High Court dismissed claims alleging that Amaewhule and 26 other lawmakers had defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC). The court found that the claimants had failed to provide sufficient evidence to support their assertion.
Justice Gbasam emphasized that proof of party membership must be demonstrated through official channels such as being listed on the party's register or possessing a membership card. He deemed that public declarations and televised ceremonies were inadequate for establishing party membership.
In an intriguing development, the People's Democratic Party (PDP) sought to intervene in the case and was admitted as the fourth defendant. Justice Gbasam reiterated that until a member's change in party affiliation is officially recorded, they are bound to adhere to their current party's regulations and laws.
Highlighting the court's stance on the matter, Justice Gbasam underscored that the state government is obligated to comply with legislation passed by the Assembly because the lawmakers, still affiliated with the PDP, remain on the party's membership roster.
He further stressed that the state government must recognize laws enacted by the Assembly, given that the lawmakers have not relinquished their positions by defecting to another political party.
The ruling underscores the significance of official documentation in proving party allegiance and reaffirms the adherence of the state government to laws duly enacted by the Assembly.