Rivers State Assembly reverses vacancy rulings for three pro‑Fubara legislators

Background to the suspension In the latter part of 2023, the Rivers State House of Assembly suspended three members – Victor Oko‑Jumbo (Bonny constituency), Sokari Goodboy Sokari (Ahoada West) and Timothy Orubienimigha (Opobo/Nkoro) – amid a heated political confrontation between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his predecessor, former governor Nyesom Wike. The suspension, enacted on 30 October 2023, was linked to alleged misconduct during the crisis.

Lifting of suspension and subsequent vacancy declaration President Bola Tinubu intervened in December 2023, facilitating a peace meeting between Wike, now Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, and Governor Fubara. Following that initiative, the Assembly lifted the three lawmakers’ suspension on 20 December 2023. However, the legislators did not resume attendance at plenary sessions, claiming they never received formal notice that the suspension had been removed. After a prolonged absence, the Assembly invoked Section 109(1)(e) of the 1999 Constitution and, on 15 October 2025, declared the three seats vacant and notified the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to organise by‑elections.

Appeal and reversal On 16 October 2026 each of the three lawmakers submitted a letter to Speaker Martin Amaewhule, explaining that the lack of communication about the lifted suspension had prevented their return to the House. The letters were read aloud during the plenary on 19 October 2026. After debate, members voted to rescind the earlier vacancy declarations, effectively recalling the three representatives to their constituencies.

Political context The reversal occurs amid a broader push for reconciliation in Rivers State. Recent meetings between Wike and Governor Fubara, including a gathering at the governor’s private residence in Port Harcourt, have aimed to ease tensions that have persisted since the 2023 crisis. The Assembly’s decision is presented as part of these peace‑building efforts, allowing the three legislators to resume their duties and represent their constituents.

Implications By reinstating the three pro‑Fubara lawmakers, the Assembly avoids the cost and logistics of conducting by‑elections and signals a willingness to address procedural grievances. The move also underscores the influence of higher‑level mediation, notably the presidentially‑led initiative that initially lifted the suspension. Observers note that the decision may strengthen the governor’s legislative support while contributing to a more stable political environment in the state.