New principal officers have been elected in the Rivers State House of Assembly. The newly appointed leaders, who took the oath of office after being elected by 27 members during Wednesday’s plenary at the Assembly chamber, include Mr. Major Jack (PDP- Akuku Toru 1) as the Majority Leader and Mr. Frankline Nwabochi (PDP-Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni 1) as the Chief Whip of the House of Assembly.
Speaker Martins Amaewhule (PDP- Obio/Akpor 1) congratulated their emergence and urged the officers to remain dedicated to their new responsibilities. Members expressed their approval, applauding the house leadership for upholding democratic principles.
Additionally, the ‘Financial Autonomy Bill, 2023’ has successfully passed its second reading. The speaker underscored the bill’s significance and expressed confidence that the governor would assent to it upon passage. However, he raised concerns about the governor, Mr. Siminialayi Fubara, allegedly withholding funds earmarked for the Assembly’s management in November.
The speaker assured that the house is prepared to carry out its constitutional duties despite any negative distractions. The bill has been referred to the House Committee on Public Accounts for hearings and other legislative scrutiny.
Quest: Cris-Edesiri Odjomah