There was a parallel sitting by the two factions of the Rivers State House of Assembly on Friday as the Victor Oko-Jumbo led Assembly screened and confirmed an eight man board members of the Board of Rivers State Bureau on Public Procurement (RSBoPP) to be chaired by Barrister Lawrence Oko-Jaja, SAN.
And the Martin Amaewhule-led Assembly on the same Friday passed the the Rivers State Electricity Market Bill during its Plenary.
The Oko-Jumbo faction screened and confirmed Dr. Ernest Ibekwe Ekwe; Dr. Mina Ogbanga; Engr. Iseleye Amachree; Engr. Adokiye Oyagiri; Engr. Gift Alex-Hart; Mrs. Grace Osaronu; and Barrister Selinah Amonieah, who will serve as members.
The eight nominees appeared before the three-man member of the Oko-Jumbo faction for screening, following a letter from Governor Siminalayi Fubara requesting their suitability for appointment to the Board of Rivers State Bureau on Public Procurement.
The nominees were questioned on how they would utilize their experience to implement government policies and ensure value for money in state contracts. Speaker Oko-Jumbo advised them to prioritize loyalty and accountability if confirmed.
The nominees were subsequently confirmed by voice vote, and the Clerk was directed to inform the Governor for possible swearing-in. The House adjourned until September 4, 2024.
Meanwhile the Amaewhule faction, in the move to enhance the investment climate in Rivers State, has passed the Rivers State Electricity Market Bill, 2024, at its 32nd Legislative Sitting.
They said the bill repeals the outdated Rivers State Electricity and Gas Board Law and establishes the Rivers State Electricity Commission to regulate electricity supply, generation, transmission, and distribution within the state.
Debating on the Report presented by Hon. Frankline Nwabochi, Chairman of the House Committee on Power on the Public Hearing of the Bill, Members lauded the Committee for a job well done, stressing that the level of stakeholders’ participation in the Public Hearing speaks volumes on the acceptability of the Bill, and urged the House to pass the Bill into law.
They bill aims to protect consumers’ rights and obligations, promoting a more efficient and effective electricity market.
Amaewhule, who is the sponsor of the Bill, commended the Committee and honorable Members for their thorough debate on the significance of the Electricity Market Bill.
He highlighted the benefits of the Bill, stating that it would stimulate the growth of the electricity market, attract foreign investors, and create opportunities for the people of Rivers State.
He Amaewhule expressed optimism that the Governor would assent to the Bill once passed, given its progressive impact and benefits.
He emphasized the importance of the Bill in driving economic growth and development in the state.
Recall that the Electricity Market Bill was committed to the House Committee on Power on the 8th of May, 2024; and in line with Legislative practice and rules of the House, the House resolved into the Committee of the Whole and gave the Bill clause by clause consideration before reverting to Plenary to give the Bill Third Reading.