A Rivers State High Court in Port Harcourt has confirmed that Martin Amaewhule and the 26 other members of the Rivers State House of Assembly remain affiliated with the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).
In a ruling delivered on Monday, Justice Okogbule Gbasam stated that the plaintiffs did not successfully demonstrate that Amaewhule and the other lawmakers had defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Justice Gbasam emphasized that party membership can only be substantiated by being listed on the party’s register or holding a membership card.
He noted that televised ceremonies or verbal declarations are insufficient to establish party membership.
In this case, the PDP had filed a motion to be included and was subsequently joined as the fourth defendant.
Justice Gbasam also declared that the Rivers State government is obligated to comply with all laws passed by the Assembly since its members are still registered with the PDP.
Consequently, their names remain on the PDP’s membership register as verified by the party.
Justice Gbasam concluded that the state government must adhere to the legislation enacted by the Assembly because the lawmakers are still recognized as PDP members and have not forfeited their seats.
