Federal Court Halts Rivers State Allocation; Atiku, Others Condemn Judiciary Verdict

In a significant development, the Federal High Court in Abuja has issued a judgment stopping the Federal Government from releasing monthly allocations to Rivers State. Justice Joyce Abdulmalik ordered the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to halt payments from the Consolidated Revenue Account, a move stemming from a suit filed by the Martins Amaewhule-led faction of the Rivers State House of Assembly. The plaintiffs, who recently defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), argued that Governor Siminalayi Fubara has yet to comply with a prior court order mandating a fresh presentation of the 2024 Appropriation Bill to their faction.

The judgment has drawn widespread condemnation, with critics warning of its potential impact on governance and the economy. Defendants in the case, including the CBN, Rivers State Government, and several financial institutions, are expected to challenge the decision in appellate courts. This ruling intensifies the legal and political tension in Rivers, with allegations of judicial bias and power plays at the heart of the controversy.

Atiku Warns Against Igniting Crisis in Rivers State

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar expressed grave concern over the Federal High Court’s ruling, cautioning that the decision could destabilize Rivers State. Through his media aide, Paul Ibe, Atiku questioned the necessity of issuing an injunction when the state government had already filed an appeal. He alleged that judicial manipulation by certain factions within the current administration was aimed at undermining Rivers’ legal appeal and, by extension, its autonomy.

Atiku’s statement also touched on broader implications for Nigerian democracy. He argued that political motivations should not take precedence over judicial integrity, highlighting recent cases where judicial decisions appeared to be influenced by external pressures. He urged caution, warning that alienating a state with significant contributions to Nigeria’s oil wealth could discourage foreign investment and aggravate the nation’s economic challenges.

MOSOP and Civil Society Groups Urge Restraint

The Movement for the Survival of the Ogoni People (MOSOP) and prominent civil society groups have called for prudence in handling Rivers State’s allocation issue. MOSOP President Fegalo Nsuke described the judgment as “genocidal,” stressing that denying residents their rightful funds could drive them toward civil unrest. He argued that political rivalries should not disrupt the lives of ordinary citizens, noting that Rivers State is integral to Nigeria’s economic stability.

Nsuke further questioned the timing and motivation behind the ruling, given the ongoing appeals. He warned that persistent marginalization could fuel resistance from the people of Rivers. Similarly, Chief Anabs Sara-Igbe, National Coordinator of the South-South Elders Forum, decried the ruling as a threat to democracy. Sara-Igbe criticized the judiciary’s perceived bias, lamenting that judicial impartiality has been compromised in Nigeria. He advocated for reforms in the judiciary, emphasizing that failure to restore judicial integrity could trigger national instability.

Governor Fubara Stands Defiant Amid Political Turmoil

Reacting to the court order, Governor Siminalayi Fubara reaffirmed his commitment to serving Rivers State, despite challenges from political opponents. During the Rivers State Day of Thanksgiving, Fubara recounted previous attempts by adversaries to oust him from office. He lauded the support of Rivers residents, attributing his continued tenure to their unwavering solidarity and resilience.

Governor Fubara accused his detractors of undermining democracy, asserting that their schemes were ultimately thwarted by divine intervention. He emphasized his administration’s transparency in managing the state’s finances and vowed to pursue developmental projects for the benefit of Rivers citizens. Fubara’s statements resonated with a large gathering of residents, clergy, and community leaders who celebrated the state’s resilience amidst political adversity.