In a recent development, Justice Donatus Okorowo of the Federal High Court in Abuja has prolonged the interim order issued on December 15, preventing the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) from taking any action against the 26 members of the Rivers House of Assembly who defected from the PDP to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The backdrop of political crises in Rivers saw the prominent defection of lawmakers, led by Martin Amaewhule, aligning with the APC in October. This move stirred tension and triggered a series of legal actions.
Responding to the defection, Edison Ehie, the rival faction’s Speaker, declared the seats of the defected lawmakers vacant, urging INEC to organize fresh elections in their respective constituencies.
Faced with imminent actions, the lawmakers, under the counsel of Steve Adehii, SAN, sought refuge in the legal realm.
Their application, backed by Ken Njemanze, SAN, convinced Justice Okorowo to issue the initial December 15 order, restraining INEC and PDP.
Court’s Discretionary Power Prevails:
PDP’s counsel opposed the extension, but Justice Okorowo, citing Order 26, Rule 10 of the Federal High Court, wielded his discretionary power in favor of justice.
He upheld the lawmakers’ plea, emphasizing the compelling reasons presented by Adehi and Njemanze.
With the recent extension, the legal battle is set to continue, as the court adjourns the matter until January 24, 2024. This date marks the hearing for other applications filed on notice, adding another layer to the unfolding legal saga.
