Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has responded to the Supreme Court’s decision affirming Martin Amaewhule and 26 other legislators as legitimate members of the Rivers State House of Assembly — a development that reshapes the state’s political landscape.

In a statement issued by the state’s Commissioner for Information, Joe Johnson, Fubara acknowledged the ruling and emphasised the need to fully understand its impact on state governance and local administration.

“At this time, we are awaiting a detailed briefing on the implications of the judgment. We will carefully evaluate the situation and determine the next steps to take in the best interest of Rivers State and its people,” the statement read.

While recognising that the verdict reinstates the lawmakers, Fubara pointed out that the root issue of their defection — the event that sparked the controversy — remains unresolved and is still under consideration at the Federal High Court in Port Harcourt.

“Since the issue of defection wasn’t on the table before the learned Justices, in their eyes, Amaewhule and the 26 others are still operating as lawmakers until that matter comes before them,” the statement noted.

Fubara reassured Rivers residents of his administration’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and acting in the state’s best interest, encouraging the public to stay peaceful and law-abiding as the government works through the judgment’s broader consequences.