By Seun Ibukun-Oni, Abuja
DAILY COURIER – The Supreme Court on Friday issued a decisive ruling barring the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) from releasing funds to the Rivers State Government until the State House of Assembly is properly constituted in accordance with the provisions of the 1999 Constitution.
The apex court also affirmed the legitimacy of the Martins Amaewhule-led faction of the Rivers State House of Assembly, effectively recognising them as the valid legislative body of the state.
The ruling marks a significant legal victory for the Amaewhule-led lawmakers, who have been embroiled in a prolonged political battle with Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his supporters over control of the state legislature.
Legal and Political Implications
The decision effectively cripples the financial operations of the Rivers State Government, preventing it from accessing statutory allocations and other funds from the federation account. This move is expected to heighten tensions in the state, where the executive and legislative arms have been at loggerheads following the defection of lawmakers and the emergence of two rival factions within the House of Assembly.
The Supreme Court’s ruling also reinforces the authority of the Amaewhule-led Assembly, which had been challenged by a faction loyal to Governor Fubara. With this verdict, the Assembly now has the judicial backing to carry out its legislative functions without further contestation.
Background of the Crisis
The Rivers political crisis stems from a rift between Governor Fubara and his predecessor, now Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike. The power struggle led to the defection of several lawmakers, prompting a constitutional crisis over the proper composition of the Assembly.
While Governor Fubara’s camp has sought to challenge the legitimacy of the 27 lawmakers led by Speaker Martins Amaewhule, today’s Supreme Court judgment effectively resolves the dispute in their favor.
Next Steps
With the Supreme Court’s decision, Governor Fubara’s administration faces an immediate financial blockade, potentially crippling governance in the state unless a resolution is reached. Legal experts suggest that the governor may either seek political reconciliation or explore legal avenues to challenge the judgment.
Meanwhile, the Amaewhule-led Assembly is expected to consolidate its authority and take steps to assert control over legislative affairs in Rivers State.
This ruling is expected to have far-reaching implications for governance in Rivers State and may set a precedent for handling similar political disputes across Nigeria.
More details to follow as the situation unfolds.
