In a landmark ruling, the Supreme Court of Nigeria has ordered the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Accountant General of the Federation to immediately cease the release of funds to the Rivers State Government. The decision, delivered earlier today, hinges on the state’s failure to present and secure approval for a legitimate budget from the Rivers State House of Assembly, led by Speaker Martin Amaewhule.
Supreme Court vs Rivers State
Justice Emmanuel Agim, delivering the lead judgment, reaffirmed the legitimacy of the Amaewhule-led House of Assembly. The Court declared that all members who allegedly defected remain legal members of the Assembly, retaining full authority to conduct legislative business.
Furthermore, the ruling invalidated any parallel assembly claiming to represent Rivers State lawmakers, asserting that only the Martin Amaewhule-led House has constitutional recognition.
Governor Fubara’s Actions Declared Illegal
The Supreme Court criticized Governor Sim Fubara for governing with only four out of the 32-member Assembly, describing it as an “illegal act” amounting to just 12.5% representation. Justice Agim condemned the move as an “act of indiscipline” and “a joke taken too far,” referencing an earlier Federal High Court ruling.
Additionally, the Court found that by withdrawing their counter-affidavits in an earlier Federal High Court case, Governor Fubara and his administration effectively admitted to all allegations raised by the Amaewhule faction. These allegations include attempts to undermine the legislative arm of government, allegedly due to fears of impeachment, which led to the controversial demolition of the State Assembly Complex.
“The governor’s fear of impeachment is no justification for destroying a legitimate democratic institution,” Justice Agim stated. The decision was unanimously backed by four other Supreme Court justices.
Political and Legal Implications
This ruling significantly impacts Rivers State’s governance and financial operations, as the Supreme Court’s decision effectively freezes state funds until a recognized budget is passed. It also solidifies the authority of the Amaewhule-led Assembly, challenging Governor Fubara’s recent governance approach.
The judgment follows President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s earlier intervention, which sought reconciliation between the factions. While Governor Fubara’s side withdrew their court submissions as part of the peace deal, the Amaewhule faction refused to do the same, leading to today’s ruling.
With this ruling, Governor Fubara faces a legal and political crisis, as he must now engage with the Amaewhule-led Assembly to restore funding to the state. The decision could also set a precedent for future disputes involving legislative legitimacy and executive power in Nigeria.
…Symfoni News will continue to monitor developments and provide updates as the situation unfolds.
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