Rivers Assembly Extends Compassion: Allocates N2 Million to Boat Accident Victims, Contemplates Limiting Governor’s Authority

The Rivers State House of Assembly has announced a benevolent donation of N2 million to support the families affected by Wednesday’s tragic boat accident that claimed 11 lives. Speaker Martin Amaewhule disclosed this compassionate decision during Thursday’s plenary held in the makeshift hallowed chamber at the Assembly Quarters in Port Harcourt, the capital of Rivers state.

In addition to addressing the humanitarian crisis, the Assembly engaged in robust discussions regarding legislative amendments. Two pivotal bills, the Rivers State Traditional Rulers Amendment Law 2024 and the Rivers State Advertisement and Use of State-Owned Property Prohibition Repeal Law 2024, underwent thorough debates after their initial reading on Tuesday.

Major Jack, the Majority Leader, passionately advocated for the former bill, emphasizing, “The major provision of this bill is to allow the Rivers State House of Assembly to be part of recognizing and or derecognizing a traditional ruler in this state.” Concurrently, Hon Tonye Adoki, representing Port Harcourt 3 Constituency, presented his case for the latter bill, citing the economic challenges faced by many citizens. He stated, “You can imagine a situation where you will pay the sum of N5 million before you can access a government facility.”

Echoing this sentiment, Alfiks Kagbang, the representative for the Andoni constituency, expressed support based on the concerns voiced by his constituents.

After a thorough exchange of views, Speaker Martin Amaewhule officially passed both bills to their respective committees for in-depth scrutiny and reporting within a two-week timeframe.

The Assembly is set to reconvene on January 19th, 2024. If these bills successfully navigate the legislative process, they hold the potential to reshape the balance of power, curbing the governor’s authority in matters related to the recognition and appointment of traditional rulers and the administration of public facilities in Rivers State.