The members of the Edo State House of Representatives have sent a warning to the state Sole Administrator, Retired Vice-Admiral Ibok-Ette Ibas, stating that he lacks the constitutional right to implement laws in the state.
The latest development came in the wake of the administrator’s proposal to create a novel budget, thus rendering the former ineffective.
During a Punch press briefing, the House deputy spokesman, Mr. Philip Agbese, said the Speaker, Tajudeen Abbas, announced that the House is setting up a committee, after due consultation with the respective leadership, to place the administrator’s actions under close watch.
“The Sole Administrator does not have the authority to carry out the National Assemblyโs function of making laws under the current circumstances. The Speaker of the House is consulting with the leadership to establish a committee to oversee the administratorโs activities and ensure that the interests of Rivers State are represented.”
The House stated that the move by the administrator to submit a new budget has been heavily objected to by the members on the grounds of lack of constitutional right.
The House, in a caution-laced tone, has also noted that the administrator should act within the confines of his authority; hence, actions that will degenerate into the passing of votes of no confidence on him will surface.
“We assume that the President has been informed of our resolution regarding the administratorโs appointment and mandate. Should the administrator exceed his authority, the House will take necessary actions, including the possibility of a vote of no confidence, to ensure accountability and adherence to the rule of law.โ
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