The Federal High Court in Abuja has extended an interim order protecting the seats of the 26 members of the Rivers State House of Assembly who recently defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Justice Donatus Okorowo, responding to an application filed by their legal representative, Steve Adehi, granted the extension on Thursday. The court’s decision prohibits the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from initiating new elections to fill the vacated seats. It further restrains INEC, PDP, and the House of Assembly from declaring the seats vacant or revoking the lawmakers’ certificates of return.
Justice Okorowo, recognizing the court’s discretionary power in the interest of justice, found the arguments presented by the lawmakers’ counsel compelling. The court has adjourned the matter for a full hearing on January 24, 2024, signaling a temporary reprieve for the defected assembly members.
