Yesterday, under the leadership of Speaker Martins Amaewhule, the Rivers State House of Assembly conducted its 85th legislative sitting, resulting in the election of a new Majority Leader and House Whip.
Honorable Major Jack, representing Akuku Toru Constituency 1 and former House Whip, emerged as the newly elected Majority Leader. Simultaneously, Honorable Frankline Nwabochi, representing Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Constituency 1, secured the position of the new House Whip.
Upon their election, both newly appointed officials promptly took their oath of office in the presence of the assembly members.
Speaker Amaewhule extended congratulations to the duo and emphasized the importance of their dedication to their new roles.
In a separate development, a Bill aimed at amending the Rivers State Local Government Law, No. 5 of 2018, and related matters reached its first reading.
Furthermore, the assembly members engaged in a discussion regarding the Rivers State House of Assembly Funds Management (Financial Autonomy) Bill, 2023, following its Second Reading.
Commenting on the Bill, Amaewhule harped on the importance of the Bill and noted his conviction that when passed the Governor will give his assent to the Bill.
The Speaker hinted that the Governor, Sir Siminialayi Fubara has withheld the funds meant for the Assembly for the month of November, 2023 but stated the resolve of the House to perform its constitutional function despite the distractions, and referred the Bill to the House Committee on Public Accounts for public hearing and further legislative scrutiny.
Amaewhule also thanked the 27 Members of the House for passing a vote of confidence on him and other principal officers; and reaffirmed his commitment to the service of the House and the State.
