Rivers crisis: Martins Amaewhule led assembly moves to repeal commission of inquiry law 1999

The Rivers State House of Assembly, under the leadership of Martins Amaewhule, has initiated the process to repeal the 1999 Commission of Inquiry Law, also known as Cap 30 of the old Rivers State.

This move comes after the state government formed a Judicial Commission of Inquiry to investigate the destruction of local government secretariats during riots following the last local government elections.

According to The Nation, the Commission had summoned prominent figures such as the Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, and the APC Caretaker Committee Chairman, Tony Okocha, both of whom refused to attend.

The bill, co-sponsored by Deputy Speaker Dumle Maol, Lolo Opuende, and Sylvanus Nwankwo, aims to replace the outdated law with a more current one, better suited to the democratic realities of today.

Maol explained that the law’s origins date back to colonial times and needs modernization.

During the second reading of the bill, lawmakers emphasized the importance of reform, with Speaker Amaewhule noting that the new law would ensure proper checks and balances between the Governor, the Assembly, and any commissions established.

The bill has been referred to the House Committee on Judiciary for further scrutiny, while the Public Complaints and Petitions Committee continues its investigation into the October disturbances.