Separate public hearings were held by competing factions of the Rivers State House of Assembly to discuss various bills.
Leading the faction aligned with Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, is Martin Amaewhule, while Victor Oko-Jumbo leads the faction in support of Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
The faction led by Oko-Jumbo conducted a public hearing on the Rivers Emergency Management Agency Bill 2024 on Tuesday, 20 August 2024. On the other hand, the Amaewhule-led faction held a public hearing regarding the Rivers State Electricity Market Bill 2024 on Wednesday, 21 August.
Focusing on repealing the current Rivers State Electricity and Gas Board Law, the Electricity Market Bill aims to establish a new framework for the state’s electricity supply, generation, transmission, and distribution.
These parallel public hearings have intensified the rift between the two factions of the State House of Assembly, raising concerns among residents.
Deputy Speaker Timothy Orubienimigha of the Oko-Jumbo faction highlighted their Assembly’s commitment to crafting comprehensive laws to govern the state.
During the public hearing, Orubienimigha underscored the significance of the bill, emphasizing its goal to establish a thorough framework for efficient emergency management and mitigation in the state.
He assured participants that their feedback would be taken into account, stating, “Your contributions are vital in shaping this bill.”
Stakeholders present at the hearing praised the Assembly for its initiative, recognizing the timeliness of the bill, particularly in light of the increasing severity of rainfall and related emergencies.
The bill aims to establish a strong system for preparedness, response, and recovery during emergencies, ultimately reducing the impact of disasters on communities.
Meanwhile, the Chairman of the House Committee on Power, Franklin Nwabochi, representing the Amaewhule faction, explained the evolving nature of power distribution responsibilities from the exclusive purview of the Federal Government to a shared responsibility as per the 1999 Constitution.
Nwabochi elaborated on how the bill, sponsored by Amaewhule, intends to set up the Rivers State Electricity Commission to uphold consumer rights and obligations, aligning with the updated constitutional provisions.
Amaewhule emphasized that the public hearing serves as a platform for individuals to express their opinions on the proposed legislation, which aims to enhance power supply in the state and attract investments in the electricity sector.
The pro-Wike Speaker reiterated the Assembly’s dedication to enacting impactful laws that bring positive change to the people of the state.