In a move that has sparked controversy, the Rivers State House of Assembly has declared the recently constituted Rivers State Investment Promotion Agency by Governor Siminalayi Fubara as illegal. The Assembly, led by Speaker Martin Amaewhule, also stated that all appointments made by the governor to the agency's board are unknown to law.
The House made this declaration during a sitting at the Assembly's official quarters in Port Harcourt on Thursday, citing the absence of any law allowing the creation of the agency. According to the Assembly, no communication was made to the House regarding the establishment of the agency, which is a requirement for it’s legitimacy.
The Chairman of the House Committee on Commerce and Industry, Gerald Oforji, presented a report on the 'purported' inauguration of the Board of the Rivers State Investment Promotion Agency by Governor Fubara. The committee noted that while such an agency could create a conducive climate for businesses, there is no law establishing it.
"The Committee maintained that if such law exists, the individuals so nominated would have been subjected to the confirmation of the Rivers State House of Assembly," the statement read. Honorable members commented on the report, pointing out that the governor has disregarded decency in governance by unilaterally establishing the agency without the required legal backing.
“Relying on the findings of the Committee, Hon. Members commented on the Report, pointing out that the Governor in the exercise of his powers has relegated decency in governance to the background.”
Speaker Amaewhule condemned the governor's actions, stating that appointing individuals to an agency not recognized by legislation is unacceptable. Amaewhule questioned why Fubara would continue to defy extant laws and the 1999 Constitution, emphasizing that such infractions will be addressed.
This development highlights the ongoing political tensions in Rivers State, with the Assembly and Governor Fubara at odds over the agency's establishment. The Assembly's declaration raises questions about the agency's legitimacy and the implications for the state's investment climate.
The Rivers State House of Assembly has called on the governor to reverse the appointments and seek the required legal approval for the agency's establishment. The Assembly has also threatened to take further action if the governor fails to comply with the law.
Read More
