The recent Supreme Court rulings on the lingering political crisis in Rivers State have provided a legal framework for resolution, but tensions remain high as both factions continue to jostle for power.
While the apex court upheld the rule of law and constitutional democracy, it cannot enforce political harmony among the warring parties. The political impasse, driven by control over state power and its associated privileges, has left governance in limbo, with neither side conceding ground.
Despite the court’s pronouncements, members of the Rivers State House of Assembly continue to issue directives as though they have won outright, while the executive branch remains defiant. At the heart of the crisis is the defection of 27 lawmakers from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), a matter yet to be conclusively settled by the courts.
One of the landmark decisions nullified the October 5, 2024, local government elections in Rivers State, citing violations of electoral laws. The court also ruled that Governor Siminalayi Fubara must present the 2025 budget before the full House of Assembly, including the defected lawmakers, before state funds can be allocated. Consequently, federal agencies have been directed to withhold Rivers State’s monthly allocations until due process is followed.
This ruling presents a dilemma for the governor, who has refused to recognize the defected lawmakers. However, with the court’s position that they must participate in legislative proceedings, Fubara now faces a critical decision—either acknowledge them or risk further political instability.
The constitutional provisions on defection, particularly Section 109(1)(g) of the 1999 Constitution, state that a lawmaker who switches parties without a legitimate division in their original party forfeits their seat. However, legal loopholes have allowed defectors to cling to power, as cases challenging their status often drag on until their tenure expires.
This issue has plagued Nigeria’s democracy, with politicians exploiting the system for personal gain. The Supreme Court, in a previous ruling on defection (Abegunde v. Ondo State House of Assembly, 2015), condemned cross-carpeting as a “fraudulent and malevolent practice” that undermines political morality. Yet, the lack of swift legal enforcement has emboldened politicians to continue the trend.
For peace to return to Rivers State, all parties must abide by the Supreme Court rulings. The executive and legislature must put aside personal interests and prioritize governance. The lawmakers, in turn, must refrain from impeachment threats and work collaboratively with the governor.
With the judiciary’s emphasis on financial accountability and adherence to constitutional provisions, Rivers State stands at a crossroads—either embrace the rule of law or descend further into political chaos. The choice now rests with the state’s leaders.
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