A Federal High Court in Port Harcourt Thursday restrained the National Assembly (NASS) from interfering in the affairs of Edo House of Assembly.
Justice Kolawole Omotosho in a ruling also stated that NASS could not compel Gov Godwin Obaseki of Edo state to issue another proclamation within the lifespan of an existing proclamation for inauguration of Edo House of Assembly.
The court gave the order when it delivered judgement in a suit brought by Mr Yekini Idiaye, the Deputy Speaker of Edo Assembly, and Henry Okhuarobo, the member representing Ikpoba-Okha state constituency.
The plaintiffs had approached the court to challenge alleged moves by NASS to take over the functions of the Edo House of Assembly.
The court also ruled that NASS lacked the power to take over the functions of Edo House of Assembly or any other House of Assembly in the country.
Omotosho said that NASS lacked the power to direct the Edo governor to issue a fresh Proclamation to the Edo state House of Assembly as this would lead to extending the tenure of members of the House of Assembly.
The judge also stated that NASS could not seal or direct anybody to seal the State House of Assembly in Edo because the house is not its appendage.
Speaking after the judgement, the counsel to the plaintiffs, Kingsley Idahosa, expressed gladness at the outcome of the case.
“We are glad that judgement has been entered in our favour. We are glad about it. He (the judge) agreed with our position,” he said.
Also speaking, counsel to Obaseki, Santos Owootori, described the judgement as sound and a victory for democracy.
The plaintiffs, who had sued in their private capacities, joined the Clerk of the National Assembly, the President of the Senate and the Speaker of the House of Representatives.
The Inspector-General of Police, the Director-General, State Security Service, and the Governor of Edo were also joined in the suit. (NAN)
