KEY POINTS

• The Rivers State House of Assembly has called for a DSS investigation into Chief Judge Simeon Amadi over claims that he falsified his age in official records.
• The move is seen as part of the ongoing power struggle between the legislative and executive arms of government in Rivers State, raising concerns about judicial independence.
• The investigation could further escalate tensions in the state’s political landscape, with potential repercussions for the judiciary and governance in Rivers State.

In a dramatic escalation of the political crisis in Rivers State, the State House of Assembly has called on the Department of State Services, DSS, to investigate the Chief Judge, Justice Simeon Amadi, over allegations of age falsification.

The move comes amid heightened tensions in the Rivers state’s political landscape.

The Punch Newspapers reports that during a plenary session on Thursday, lawmakers led by Speaker Martin Amaewhule deliberated on documents presented by the Leader of the House, Hon. Major Jack, which allegedly revealed discrepancies in the Chief Judge’s age records.

Deputy Speaker Hon. Dumle Maol raised the issue, stating, “These documents before me simply say that the Chief Judge of the state, Justice Simeon Amadi, falsified his age in service. Mr. Speaker, that is a very serious allegation, and I do hope that this House takes legislative notice.”

Speaker Amaewhule echoed the gravity of the situation, emphasizing the need for a thorough investigation. “The documents are only suggesting a case of age falsification by the honorable Chief Judge of the state, Simeon Amadi. What it means is that there has to be an investigation to that effect,” he said.

Following a brief debate, the lawmakers unanimously resolved to write to the DSS, urging the agency to investigate the allegations and forward its findings to the Assembly.

Political tensions rise as Rivers Assembly takes aim at Judiciary

The call for an investigation into the Chief Judge adds another layer to the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State, which has seen clashes between the executive and legislative arms of government.

The Assembly’s move has sparked concerns about the independence of the judiciary and the potential for political interference.

Critics argue that the allegations against Justice Amadi may be politically motivated, given the strained relationship between the Assembly and the state governor, Siminalayi Fubara.

This development follows recent controversies, including the denial of access to the Assembly complex for Governor Fubara to present the 2025 budget and warnings of impeachment against the governor for defying the Assembly.

The political instability has drawn reactions from key stakeholders, including former Governor Nyesom Wike, who expressed satisfaction with recent Supreme Court judgments favoring the Assembly.

Justice Amadi, who has not yet publicly responded to the allegations, is widely regarded as a respected figure in the state’s judiciary. His alleged age falsification, if proven, could have significant implications for his career and the integrity of the judicial system in Rivers State.