The Rivers State High Court in Port Harcourt, under the leadership of Justice Kip, is poised to issue a verdict on the legal status of Celestine Omehia as a former governor of Rivers State.
Following the conclusion of Peter Odili’s term, Omehia assumed office and was inaugurated as governor on May 29, 2007. However, his candidacy faced opposition from former Governor Rotimi Amaechi, sparking a prolonged legal dispute regarding the legitimacy of the primaries that propelled Omehia into power.
Ultimately, the court ruled in favor of Amaechi, validating him as the duly elected candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Despite this verdict, during Nyesom Wike’s tenure as governor, the State House of Assembly enacted legislation recognizing Omehia’s governorship. However, in a surprising development in 2023, Wike rescinded the previously granted recognition to Omehia and called for the reimbursement of all pensions accrued during his tenure.
In response, Omehia initiated legal action, petitioning the court to affirm his status as a former governor of the state.
At present, all parties involved are engaged in legal proceedings, eagerly awaiting the impending judgment that will determine whether Omehia will be officially acknowledged as a former governor of Rivers State.
