The Supreme Court of Nigeria has ordered the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Accountant General of the Federation to immediately stop the release of financial allocations to Rivers State. This decision comes as part of an ongoing effort to address the political turmoil in the state, particularly concerning the legitimacy of the state's legislative assembly.
The court's directive emphasizes that funds should only be disbursed once a lawful Appropriation Act is enacted by the Martins Amaewhule-led faction of the Rivers State House of Assembly. This faction, recognized by the court as the legitimate lawmakers, has been ordered to resume their legislative duties without delay.
The political landscape in Rivers State has been marred by controversy, with Governor Siminalayi Fubara facing criticism for presenting the 2024 budget to only four members of the Assembly. This move was deemed unconstitutional by the court, which also condemned the demolition of the Assembly building as an attempt to prevent the 27 pro-Wike lawmakers from performing their duties.
Key Points from the Ruling
Fund Allocation Freeze: The CBN and the Accountant General are prohibited from disbursing funds to Rivers State until a lawful Appropriation Act is passed by the Amaewhule-led Assembly.Recognition of Amaewhule-led Assembly: The Supreme Court has recognized the Martins Amaewhule-led faction as the legitimate lawmakers.
Immediate Resumption of Assembly: The court has ordered the 27 pro-Wike lawmakers to resume their legislative duties without hindrance.
Criticism of Governor Fubara: The court criticized Governor Fubara for presenting the budget to only four members of the Assembly, which was deemed unconstitutional.
Demolition of Assembly Building: The court condemned Fubara's demolition of the Assembly building as an attempt to prevent the 27 lawmakers from performing their duties.
Comments