The Court of Appeal Abuja has upheld the removal of Martins Chike Amaewhule and 26 other members from the Rivers State House of Assembly, refusing to reverse a prior Federal High Court decision that declared their seats vacant.
In a virtual ruling delivered on Friday, the Appellate Court emphasized that reversing the Federal High Court’s decision prematurely would prejudge the ongoing appeal.
The three-member panel set June 20 for the hearing of the appeal filed by Amaewhule and the other affected members, seeking reinstatement to their seats in the State House of Assembly.
The justices urged all parties involved to maintain the status quo and refrain from any actions that could escalate tensions until the appeal is heard and a final decision is reached.
This ruling underscores the ongoing legal battle over the membership status of the affected lawmakers in Rivers State, highlighting the complexities and legal intricacies involved in such cases.