Rivers State Chief Judge Set To Embark On One-Year Recess Leave
…..In the absence of the Chief Judge, only the governor has the constitutional power to appoint an Acting Chief Judge, which further stalls any potential efforts for impeachment.
The political landscape in Rivers State has taken a new twist as the state’s Chief Judge has announced plans to take a one-year leave for recess, a decision that comes amidst the ongoing crisis in the Rivers State House of Assembly. The crisis intensified after the Supreme Court’s recent ruling, which reinstated 27 defected lawmakers loyal to former Governor Nyesom Wike, with Martins Amaewhule emerging as the leader of the group.
In their first plenary session, the lawmakers issued a 48-hour ultimatum to Governor Siminalayi Fubara, demanding that he present the 2025 state budget or face impeachment.
As part of the impeachment process, the Chief Judge would typically be required to sign the official documents to formalize the proceedings. However, with the announcement of the Chief Judge’s decision to take an extended leave, the impeachment efforts against Governor Fubara have hit a major roadblock.
In the absence of the Chief Judge, only the governor has the constitutional power to appoint an Acting Chief Judge, which further stalls any potential efforts for impeachment. Advertisements This development has added a layer of uncertainty to the already volatile political environment in the state.
