The Rivers State House of Assembly has elected Hon. Martins Amaewhule as the new speaker of the house.
Amaewhule, who is believed to be a loyal supporter of the immediate past governor of the state, Nyesom Wike, was elected as the speaker, on the floor of the Assembly on Monday, May 4, 2023.
Reports revealed that he was elected following his nomination by the member representing Okrika Constituency, Hon Linda Stewart, which was seconded by the lawmaker representing Akuku-Toru Constituency, Hon Major Jack.
However, it was further revealed that the lawmaker representing Gokana Constituency in the House, Ho. Dumlre Mao was also elected as the deputy speaker of the 10th Assembly in the state.
Amaewhule, after taking his oath of office pledged that the House under his leadership would come up with legislation that will stand the test of time.
Speaking after taking his Oath of office, the new speaker, who promised a new top-class Assembly, appreciated his colleagues for voting in his favour and assured a House of Assembly that will not betray the confidence of the people.
Speaking during the inauguration, the Rivers State Governor Siminalaye Fubara, quoted section 105, subsection 3 of the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 as amended, which conferred on him the powers to dissolve the previous assembly and simultaneously proclaim the 10th which will begin by electing principal officers of the house.
“My duty this morning is officially to dissolve the 9th Assembly and inaugurate the 10th Assembly so that you can commence your first session.
“Whereas it is provided in section 105, subsection 3 of the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 as amended. That the person elected as governor shall have the power to proclaim the holding of the first session of the state assembly immediately after being sworn in.
“Therefore, I, Siminalayi Fubara Governor of Rivers State, in the exercise of the powers bestowed upon me by section 105 subsection 3 as aforesaid, and of all other powers enabling me on that behalf hereby proclaim that the first session of the 10th Rivers State Assembly holds at 10:00 am on this day, Monday the 5th of June, 2023, in the Rivers State House of Assembly Complex, Port Harcourt,” he said.
