The Rivers State House of Assembly, led by Martin Amaewhule, has accused Governor Siminalayi Fubara of unlawfully establishing the Rivers State Investment Promotion Agency. The lawmakers assert that the creation of this new agency is not sanctioned by any existing law.
In a statement issued by the media aide to the Speaker, Martins Wachukwu, the Assembly expressed its concerns during its 41st sitting in Port Harcourt. They argued that there was no legal framework for the agency and that the governor had failed to inform the House about its formation.
The controversy emerged following a report presented by Gerald Oforji, Chairman of the House Committee on Commerce and Industry. The report described the inauguration of the agency’s board by Governor Fubara as “purported” and noted the absence of legal backing for such an agency.
The committee’s report acknowledged that a properly established agency could potentially enhance the business environment in the state but criticized the lack of legal foundation for its creation. According to the report, any law establishing such an agency would require confirmation of its board members by the House of Assembly.
Members of the Assembly, relying on the committee’s findings, condemned the governor’s actions. Speaker Amaewhule denounced the governor’s decision to appoint individuals to an unlegislated agency, deeming it a breach of proper governance practices.
In a decisive vote, the House strongly rejected the governor’s actions, declaring the establishment of the Rivers State Investment Promotion Agency illegal and questionable.
