The national leadership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has issued a stern warning to former members of the Rivers State House of Assembly who lost their seats following their defection from the PDP to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
In a statement, National Publicity Secretary Hon. Debo Ologunagba cautioned these ex-lawmakers to refrain from actions and statements that could disrupt peace and governance in the state.
The PDP reminded the former legislators that they are no longer members of the Rivers State House of Assembly, citing Section 109 (1) (g) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended). The party emphasized that these individuals cannot assemble or issue any directives to the state governor in the capacity of assembly members.
This warning follows a seven-day ultimatum issued by the former lawmakers from an undisclosed location, demanding Governor Siminialayi Fubara re-present the 2024 Rivers State budget, which has already been passed and signed into law. The PDP described this action as an attempt to usurp the powers of the Rivers House of Assembly, intending to cause chaos and undermine the democratic and constitutional order in the state, violating Section 1 sub-section 2 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).
The PDP reiterated that these ex-lawmakers lost their seats upon their defection from the PDP, the party on whose platform they were elected. Consequently, they no longer enjoy the rights, privileges, and recognition of members of the Rivers State House of Assembly.
The PDP called on the Inspector General of Police to take note of the subversive actions of these former lawmakers and act swiftly to protect the institutions of democracy, peace, and security in Rivers State.
The party also urged the people of Rivers State to remain vigilant, law-abiding, and united in working towards the continued stability, peace, and delivery of democratic dividends in the state under the PDP platform.
