In New Twist, Edison Ehie Quits as Rivers Speaker, Lawmaker

The former leader of the Rivers State House of Assembly and recently recognised Speaker of the House by a the state High court, Hon Edison Ehie has resigned as the speaker and member of the 10th Assembly.

In a notice of resignation personally signed and addressed to the National Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (NEC) in Abuja, on Sunday, Ehie who represents Ahoada East Constituency II in the Assembly said it was a voluntary resignation.

He further appreciated his colleagues and his constituents for availing him the opportunity to serve them.

Parts of the letter reads: “This is to formally notify you of my voluntary resignation as speaker and member of the 10 Rivers State House of Assembly representing Ahoada – East Constituency lI with effect from the date of this letter.

“I wish to deeply appreciate my colleagues and the people of my Constituency for the rare opportunity to serve and hope to continue to give my utmost best in service to Rivers State subsequently.”

A High Court sitting in Port Harcourt, had recently recognised Ehie as the Speaker and restrained Martin Amaewhule and Dumle Maol from parading as the Speaker and Deputy Speaker of the State House of Assembly.

The court presided by Justice M.W Danagogo also restrained the respondents in the matter from interfering with the activities of Edison Ehie as the new Speaker.

In the motion of experte filed by Edison Ehie and registered in suit number PHC/3030/CS/2023, the court also warned against the use of thugs and police officers to forcefully gain access into the premises of the Assembly Complex.

The judge further warned that if the application turned out to be frivolous, the claimant (Ehie) would be made to pay the sum of N50 million as damages to the court.

The matter was adjourned to December 21, 2023 for motion on notice and subsequently adjourned till January 26, 2024 for hearing.