By Olaide Ajibola, JKNMedia Reporter
IN A DECISIVE move towards restoring legislative order, Hon. Victor Oko-Jumbo, representing Bonny State Constituency, has clinched the coveted position of Speaker in the 10th Rivers State House of Assembly.
The election, conducted in adherence to the House’s Standing Order, unfolded on Wednesday at 10.00am during a pivotal plenary session.
In his inaugural address, Hon. Victor Oko-Jumbo extended gratitude to his fellow lawmakers for their endorsement, a nod that follows the resignation of former Speaker, Rt. Hon. Edison Ogerenye Ehie.
Oko-Jumbo, while invoking constitutional provisions, underscored the imperative of upholding the rule of law in the wake of recent legislative tumult.
Addressing the chamber, Oko-Jumbo underscored the legal intricacies surrounding the contentious defection of 25 former lawmakers from the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) on December 11, 2023.
He cited Section 109(1)(g) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999, which mandates the declaration of vacant seats in such instances.
Furthermore, the new Speaker invoked the judicial precedent set forth in the landmark case of MacFoy v UAC (1961) 3 All ER 1169, elucidating that actions stemming from the erstwhile legislative body are null and void in the eyes of the law.
He also underscored the need for adherence to legal doctrine, emphasizing that foundational legislative proceedings are irreparably flawed.
Oko-Jumbo enjoined the Executive and Judicial branches, as well as the public, to disregard any enactments originating from the erstwhile Assembly, stressing their legal nullity.
Additionally, he urged Governor Siminalayi Fubara to recognize the newly constituted House as the sole legislative authority in Rivers State, signaling a departure from engagement with the defected members.
Speaking to reporters, post-session, Hon. Victor Oko-Jumbo reiterated his commitment to constitutional obligations and pledged diligent service towards the advancement of Rivers State, affirming plans for transparent governance and vowed to communicate legislative proceedings effectively to the populace.
Echoing Oko-Jumbo’s perspectives, newly elected House Leader, Hon. Sokari Goodboy Sokari, emphasized the imperative of collaboration with the Executive while cautioning against engagement with former members.
Sokari stressed the Assembly’s prerogative to safeguard democratic principles, hinting at potential repercussions for any deviation from constitutional norms.
The ceremonial transfer of authority saw the new Speaker escorted to the dais with the original mace of the Rivers State House of Assembly, symbolizing a symbolic transition of power.
This gesture, orchestrated by Sergeant-at-Arms David Wariboko, emphasized the formalization of Oko-Jumbo’s leadership amidst a backdrop of legal uncertainty, as he adds with excitement that with Rivers State bracing for a new legislative era, the installment of Victor Oko-Jumbo marks a pivotal juncture in the Assembly’s history, heralding a renewed commitment to legal rectitude and democratic governance.
