In a recent development, Ehie Edison, the Chief of Staff at the Government House in Port Harcourt, has issued a response to a purported bill passed by the Rivers State House of Assembly.
The bill in question, titled the Rivers State House of Assembly Service Commission (Amendment) Bill, 2024, was allegedly passed during the 109th Legislative sitting on Thursday, February 15, 2024.
According to reports, the bill seeks to amend the composition and appointment process of the Rivers State House of Assembly Service Commission.
Under the current law, established by the Rivers State House of Assembly Service Commission Law of 1999, the appointment of the Commission’s Chairman and members is vested in the Governor, subject to confirmation by the House of Assembly. However, the purported amendment would transfer this power from the Governor to the House of Assembly itself.
In response, Barr. Ehie Edison highlighted several legal issues surrounding the bill. He emphasized the constitutional powers vested in the Governor as the Chief Executive Officer of the State, stating that executive appointments fall under the Governor’s jurisdiction.
Furthermore, Barr. Edison cited constitutional alterations made in 2023, which outline the powers and functions of State Houses of Assembly Service Commissions. He argued that the appointment of the Commission’s Chairman and members is not within the purview of the House of Assembly, as stated in the amendment bill.
Additionally, Barr. Edison addressed the control of the Rivers State House of Assembly Service Commission, asserting that it falls under the authority of the State Government, not the legislature.
Moreover, he pointed out legal precedents regarding the revival of repealed statutes, emphasizing that the House of Assembly cannot resurrect provisions of a law that have already been repealed.
Barr. Ehie Edison stated that the purported bill contravenes the 1999 Constitution and is therefore null and void. He urged for adherence to legal principles and emphasized the importance of upholding constitutional integrity.
The response from the Government House Chief of Staff sheds light on the legal complexities surrounding the alleged bill passed by the Rivers State House of Assembly, underscoring the need for clarity and adherence to constitutional principles in legislative matters.
