Promise Reginald, the caretaker committee chairman of Omuma Local Government Area in Rivers State, has responded to recent statements made by Martin Amaewhule regarding council appointments and the call for arrests. Reginald’s comments highlight a significant controversy over the legitimacy and constitutional authority within the local governance structure.
In the video from 2:01, Reginald firmly contested Amaewhule’s authority to demand the arrest of individuals in Rivers State, asserting that such actions exceed his constitutional powers. This dispute underscores the ongoing tension between different political factions and the challenges of maintaining lawful governance in the region.
“He doesn’t have any constitutional powers to call for the arrest of anyone in Rivers,” Reginald stated. This assertion highlights the fundamental issue at the heart of the controversy—namely, the limits of authority and the importance of adhering to constitutional protocols.
Reginald elaborated on his position, noting that only certain officials possess the authority to make such declarations. “To be honest with you, if a serving lawmaker in Rivers State or the Speaker of the Rivers State Assembly, Right Honourable Victor Oko Jumbo, was the one saying these things, then we can take him seriously,” he explained. Reginald’s point underscores the need for legitimate and recognised authority figures to make such significant decisions.
He further clarified that Amaewhule, no longer a member of the Rivers State Assembly, lacks the jurisdiction to enforce such measures. “The man ceased to be a member of the Rivers State Assembly, so on that note, he has no right, he doesn’t have any constitutional powers whatsoever, to call for the arrest of anyone in Rivers State, not to mention a serving caretaker chairman in any of the 23 local governments of Rivers State,” Reginald asserted. This statement reinforces the importance of respecting legal boundaries and the proper channels of authority.
Reginald also addressed the broader issue of political posturing and misuse of power. “But I don’t blame him. Why I don’t blame him is because they are busy parading themselves, you know, telling people that the police belong to them, that they give orders and the police obeys them,” he remarked. This criticism highlights the problematic nature of political figures overstepping their boundaries and creating an atmosphere of confusion and illegitimacy.
In summary, Promise Reginald’s response to Martin Amaewhule’s statements brings to light critical issues regarding the limits of authority and the need for constitutional adherence in Rivers State. By challenging Amaewhule’s call for arrests and highlighting the proper channels of power, Reginald underscores the importance of lawful governance and the dangers of political overreach. His comments call for a return to respect for constitutional powers and the legitimate exercise of authority within the state’s local government framework….Seë_Morë