The Rivers State House of Assembly suspended the Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Martins Amaehwule, on Monday.
About 26 members of the House who suspended Amaehwule also elected and inaugurated Edison Ehie as its new Speaker.
The election of the new Speaker followed the crisis that rocked the assembly on Monday regarding the move by some lawmakers to impeach the state’s governor, Siminalayi Fubara.
News About Nigeria had previously reported that the attempt to impeach Fubara resulted in the burning down of the legislative chambers of the government on Sunday night.
Speaking after a brief plenary session of the House at a chamber within the Government House, Port Harcourt, the new Speaker promised to ensure justice and fairness in the legislative process.
Edison also expressed his appreciation to his colleagues for electing him as the Speaker of the 10th Rivers State House of Assembly.
In his words, “The House has just concluded its plenary session, and with all humility, I must thank my 26 colleagues who have elected me as the new Speaker of the 10th Rivers State House of Assembly. My commitment to the people of Rivers is that I will be just and fair to all. I will ensure that the rule of law is upheld. I will not betray my colleagues, the people of Rivers, or my constituency.”
He further stated that he would ensure the independence of the Rivers State House of Assembly is maintained, with mutual respect for the judiciary and executive branches.
The new Speaker also encouraged the suspended members of the House who are aggrieved to take their concerns to court, noting that the House has instructed the Committee on Petitions to give them a fair hearing.
