Rivers Crisis: House Of Reps take over functions of Rivers Assembly

The House of Representatives has on wednesday taken over the functions of the Rivers Assembly.
The sitting was chaired by the Deputy Speaker of the House, Emeka Ihedioha
Wednesday’s decision follows the violence that occurred at the Rivers State House of Assembly on Tuesday, where members engaged in a free-for-all fight.

The decision on Wednesday was sequel to debates and approval of a motion based on section 11, sub section 4 of the 1999 Constitution.

The section states that “At any time, when any House of Assembly of a state is unable to perform its functions by reason of the situation prevailing in the state, The National Assembly may make such Laws for the peace, order and good government of that state with respect to matters on which a House of Assembly may make laws as may appear to the National Assembly to be necessary or expedient until such time as the House of Assembly is able to resume its functions; and any such laws enacted by the National Assembly pursuant to this section shall have effect as if they were laws enacted by the House of Assembly of the state.”
Five members of the Rivers House of Assembly, on Tuesday attempted to impeach the Speaker, Otelemaba Amachree, a move which resulted into serious brawl.
The House has 32 members, with majority loyal to the Rivers State Governor, Rotimi Amaechi.