Pro-Wike Lawmakers Dare Gov Fubara, Replaces Major Rivers Law

In a move to dare Governor Siminalayi Fubara and insist that it is the legitimate assembly, the Rivers State House of Assembly, led by Speaker Martins Amaewhule, passed the Electricity Market Bill, 2024, into law on Friday.

This legislation by the pro-Nyesom Wike lawmakers repeals the Rivers State Electricity and Gas Board Law CAP 50, Laws of Rivers State 1999.

According to a statement by Amaewhule’s Special Assistant on Media, Martins Wachukwu, the passage of this bill is intended to enhance the investment climate in Rivers State for the benefit of its residents.

The newly passed Rivers State Electricity Market Law aims to regulate the supply, generation, transmission, and distribution of electricity within the state. It also establishes the Rivers State Electricity Commission, which will be responsible for enforcing consumer rights and obligations.

During the debate on the report presented by Frankline Nwabochi, Chairman of the House Committee on Power, lawmakers praised the committee for its thorough work. They noted the significant stakeholder participation in the public hearing, which indicated strong support for the bill. The House was urged to pass the bill into law.

Speaker Amaewhule commended the committee and members for their in-depth discussion on the bill’s importance. He highlighted the bill’s potential to boost the electricity market, attract foreign investment, and create new opportunities for the people of Rivers State.

Amaewhule expressed confidence that, given the bill’s progressive nature and benefits, the Governor would give his assent once the bill is passed.

The Electricity Market Bill was initially referred to the House Committee on Power on May 8, 2024. Following legislative procedures, the House resolved into the Committee of the Whole for a thorough review before returning to plenary for the bill’s third reading.