S uspended members of the Rivers State House of Assembly have commenced a five-day legislative training tour in the United Kingdom, as part of efforts to enhance their legislative expertise despite the ongoing political standoff in the state.
The 10th Rivers State House of Assembly Legislative Tour was officially flagged off on Friday, April 4, 2025, in Central London by Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Martin Chike Amaewhule.
In his opening address, Speaker Amaewhule described the tour as a vital opportunity for lawmakers to broaden their knowledge and gain exposure to best practices in governance, particularly in understanding the distinctions and functions within both presidential and parliamentary systems.
“This tour offers us a chance to learn legislative innovations beyond our borders,” he said. “It will sharpen our oversight capacity and better position us for the challenges ahead.”
The Day 1 session of the tour focused on “Legislative Dynamics in the Presidential and Parliamentary Systems”, and was attended by principal officers and members of the House who expressed confidence that the training would inspire peer reviews and foster fresh insights in governance.
This UK visit marks the third in a series of capacity-building initiatives reportedly organized without financial support from the Rivers State Government. According to the House leadership, the programmes have been fully sponsored by influential figures and elder statesmen in Rivers State who remain loyal to the Assembly despite what they termed the “unconstitutional non-funding” of the House by suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
In a show of appreciation, the lawmakers used the occasion to thank former Governor and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, as well as other members of the Rivers State Elders Council, for their unwavering support. They also offered prayers for their continued success and wellbeing.
Speaker Amaewhule, in his closing remarks, extended heartfelt gratitude to the people of Rivers State for their trust and resilience. He urged them to stay peaceful and supportive during this critical period of administrative uncertainty.
“Better days lie ahead,” he assured. “Your confidence in this House is not taken for granted.”
As the five-day tour continues, political observers are watching closely, noting that the training comes amid deepening tensions and unresolved constitutional issues in Rivers State governance.
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