The Federal High Court has dismissed a suit filed by the Labour Party challenging the alleged defection of Rt. Hon. Martin Chike Amewhule and 26 other lawmakers in Rivers State.
In its ruling, the court affirmed that the Supreme Court had already addressed the matter in its judgment delivered on February 28, 2025. Contrary to the Labour Party’s claims, the Federal High Court noted that the apex court did not limit its decision to the withholding of federal allocations and the legality of the October 5, 2024, local government elections, but also dealt comprehensively with the defection issue.
According to the court, the Supreme Court ruled that Amewhule and his colleagues did not defect from their political party, stressing that mere symbolic acts, such as flying flags or filing affidavits, were insufficient to prove defection. The judgment highlighted that due process was not followed, particularly since the Rivers State Government had demolished the legislative chambers where such proceedings should occur.
The Supreme Court further described defection as a parliamentary matter and criticized the Rivers State Government for allegedly attempting to undermine the legislative arm of government to avoid impeachment. It noted that the governor had previously recognized a controversial four-member assembly, effectively acting as judge and enforcer in his own case.
Citing Section 287 of the Nigerian Constitution, the Federal High Court reiterated that the decisions of the Supreme Court are binding on all lower courts and authorities. The presiding judge emphasized his obligation to uphold the apex court’s verdict, stating it would be improper to contradict a settled legal position.
The suit was subsequently dismissed in its entirety.
