Supreme Court Verdict: Rivers Government Says Defection Issue Still Unresolved

The Rivers State Government has stated that the recent Supreme Court judgment on state allocation and local government administration does not address the defection of 27 lawmakers, as that matter remains before the Federal High Court in Port Harcourt.

In a statement on Friday, the Commissioner for Information, Joe Johnson, said the government is awaiting a full briefing on the ruling’s implications and will carefully assess the situation before deciding on the next steps in the interest of the state and its people. He urged residents to remain calm, law-abiding, and focused on their daily activities while the government seeks further clarity.

Johnson also clarified that the defection of Martin Amaewhule and 26 other lawmakers was not considered in the Supreme Court’s ruling. He noted that, legally, the Justices still recognize them as members of the Assembly.

Reaffirming the government’s commitment to upholding the rule of law, Johnson assured that all actions taken would be in the best interest of Rivers State.