In a recent ruling delivered virtually on June 14th, the Appellate Court in Rivers State overturned a decision by the Federal High Court regarding the status of lawmakers aligned with Governor Nyesom Wike in the Rivers State House of Assembly.
### Key Points from the Ruling:
1. **Reversal of Federal High Court Decision:** The Appellate Court reversed the decision of the Federal High Court which had declared the seats of pro-Wike lawmakers, including Martin Amaewhule, vacant.
2. **Approval from APC Reform Group:** The All Progressives Congress (APC) reform group welcomed the Appellate Court’s decision, which upheld the removal of Martin Amaewhule and 26 other lawmakers from the Rivers State House of Assembly. They viewed this as a victory for democracy, the rule of law, and political integrity.
3. **Judicial Endorsement of Stability:** According to Comrade Moses Eguono, the national president of the APC reform group, the judiciary’s decision prevented political opportunism and potential destabilization. They criticized the defected lawmakers’ actions as a miscalculation and emphasized the importance of loyalty and adherence to party principles.
4. **Future Political Plans:** The APC reform group announced its readiness to nominate candidates for the vacant positions in the Rivers State House of Assembly. They affirmed that only candidates who align with the party’s principles and philosophy will be considered, dismissing the sacked lawmakers as opportunistic and lacking party allegiance.
5. **Commitment to Democracy:** Eguono underscored the judiciary’s role in upholding the Constitution and maintaining a robust democracy. He reiterated their determination to field credible candidates who will contribute to the advancement of Rivers State and Nigeria as a whole.
### Conclusion:
The ruling by the Appellate Court has significant implications for the political landscape in Rivers State, reaffirming the judiciary’s authority in settling disputes and maintaining political stability. It sets the stage for the APC to assert its influence by nominating candidates who reflect their party’s values and objectives in the upcoming elections.