Rivers State House of Assembly has alleged that it uncovered a plot to procure a court order aimed at stopping the legislature from performing its constitutional functions.
The allegation was contained in a statement issued today in Port Harcourt by the Chairman, House Committee on Information, Petitions and Complaints, Dr Enemi George.
According to the statement, the alleged plot involves obtaining an ex parte order from a Rivers State High Court sitting outside Port Harcourt, the state capital.
However, the House said the alleged move to stop the proceedings is dead on arrival as it would amount to an attempt to subvert the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended).
The lawmakers described the alleged plot as illegal, saying it contravenes Sections 272(3) and 188(10) of the Constitution, as well as established judicial precedents from the Court of Appeal.
Dr. George said rather than resorting to what he described as subterranean moves, the affected office holders should respond to the notice of allegations already served on them by the House.
The Assembly called on those allegedly behind the move to exercise restraint and refrain from actions inimical to the Constitution and the rule of law.
It would be recalled that the lawmakers last Thursday commenced impeachment proceedings against Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Professor Ngozi Odu, over alleged gross misconduct.