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The Rivers State House of Assembly has become the center of intense legislative activity, as two rival factions conducted separate public hearings on different bills; this lays bare the deepening divisions within the assembly.
The Assembly is split between two factions: one led by Martin Amaewhule, a supporter of Minister Nyesom Wike, and the other led by Victor Oko-Jumbo, who is loyal to Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
In an unusual legislative scenario, the Oko-Jumbo faction held a public hearing on the Emergency Management Agency Bill on Tuesday, August 20, while the Amaewhule faction organized a hearing on the Electricity Market Bill on Wednesday, August 21.
The Electricity Market Bill aims to revamp the state’s electricity sector by repealing the current law and introducing a new framework designed to enhance the generation, transmission, distribution, and supply of electricity in Rivers State.
As these public hearings unfolded simultaneously, the rift between the two factions grew more pronounced, raising concerns among residents about the potential implications for governance in the state.
Deputy Speaker Timothy Orubienimigha, who represents the Oko-Jumbo faction, stressed the significance of the Emergency Management Agency Bill, asserting that it would create a comprehensive system for managing and mitigating emergencies in Rivers State.
Read also: I Can Walk Around Entire Rivers State Without Security – Wike
During the public hearing, Orubienimigha underscored the necessity of public participation, stating, “Your input is essential to ensuring this bill addresses the specific needs of our state.”
Participants commended the Assembly for its proactive approach, noting that the bill’s introduction comes at a critical time when severe rainfall and its consequences demand urgent attention.
Meanwhile, on Wednesday, the Amaewhule faction held its public hearing on the Rivers State Electricity Market Bill, 2024, gathering input from various stakeholders.
Nwabochi, Chairman of the House Committee on Power, pointed out that the 1999 Constitution has devolved electric power from an exclusive federal matter to a concurrent responsibility, enabling states to play an active role.
He elaborated that the bill seeks to establish the Rivers State Electricity Commission, which will advocate for consumer rights, safeguard their interests, and outline their responsibilities, in alignment with the recent constitutional reforms.
Amaewhule, a key ally of Wike, emphasized the importance of establishing a clear legal framework to attract investment in the power sector, particularly following its inclusion in the Concurrent Legislative List.
