BREAKING: Rivers Chief Judge declines notice to set up panel against Fubara

The Chief Judge of Rivers State, Justice Simeon Amadi, has declined a request by the state House of Assembly to constitute a judicial panel of inquiry to investigate Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Ngozi Odu, citing an existing court order.

Justice Amadi’s decision follows a resolution by the lawmakers asking him to set up a seven-member panel to probe allegations of gross misconduct levelled against the governor and his deputy.

According to sources familiar with the matter, the chief judge based his refusal on the grounds that a court order currently restrains any action that could prejudice ongoing legal proceedings connected to the political crisis in the state.

The request from the Rivers Assembly is part of the escalating face-off between the executive and the legislature, which has plunged the state into a prolonged political standoff.

While the lawmakers insist that the constitution empowers the chief judge to constitute a panel upon receipt of a formal request, legal observers say Justice Amadi’s position reflects caution aimed at avoiding contempt of court or further complicating the already tense situation.

The development is expected to fuel fresh debates over the legality of the assembly’s actions and the next steps in the power struggle rocking Rivers State.

As of the time of filing this report, neither the state government nor the House of Assembly has issued an official reaction to the chief judge’s decision.

Join Very Nigerian WhatsApp Channel
For Verified Breaking News, Exclusive Reports, Trending Stories, And Real-time Updates.
CLICk HERE TO JOIN!