Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has assured residents that his administration will implement the Supreme Court’s recent ruling after carefully reviewing its Certified True Copy (CTC). This follows the apex court’s decision on Friday, which nullified the October 5, 2024, local government elections in the state.
The Supreme Court also directed the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Accountant-General of the Federation to halt monthly federal allocations to local governments in Rivers, a move that has sparked widespread reactions from political and regional leaders.
Governor’s Response and Directives
In a statewide broadcast, Governor Fubara acknowledged the Supreme Court’s ruling, stating that while his administration disagrees with the judgment, it remains committed to upholding constitutional principles and the rule of law.
“Since inception, we have conducted the affairs of government within the framework of our Constitution, due process, and the rule of law. While we may not be infallible, we have not deliberately violated constitutional governance,” Fubara declared.
He further disclosed that his legal team expects to receive the CTC of the judgment by Friday, March 7, 2025, and assured the public that his administration would act accordingly upon review.
In light of the court’s decision, Fubara directed the Heads of Local Government Administration to assume control of the 23 local government councils until fresh elections are conducted by the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission. He also instructed outgoing local government chairmen to hand over power to the administrators by Monday, March 3, 2025.
Despite the political turmoil, the governor urged residents to remain calm, emphasizing that his administration would continue working towards the state’s stability and development.
Mixed Reactions from Political Leaders and Stakeholders
The Supreme Court’s decision has ignited significant debate among political leaders and regional stakeholders.
Calls for Political Resolution
South-South leaders, including Brigadier-General Idada Ikponmwen (retd.), emphasized the need for a political solution. “The governor, lawmakers, and political leaders must find a way to resolve this crisis politically without undermining the court’s decision,” Ikponmwen stated.
Elder Joseph Ambakederimo, convener of the South-South Reawakening Group (SSRG), warned that non-compliance could have dire consequences. “The judgment has far-reaching implications on Rivers State’s economy and governance. The governor must act in accordance with the ruling,” he said.
Former PRP governorship candidate Emmanuel Igbini hailed the ruling as a step towards reconciliation between Governor Fubara and Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike. “This judgment paves the way for resolving the lingering political discord,” he remarked.
Criticism of Supreme Court’s Ruling
However, the decision has not gone without criticism. The Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) expressed deep concerns over the suspension of local government allocations, calling on the Supreme Court to reconsider its stance for economic stability.
Ijaw leader Chief Anabs Sara-Igbe accused the judiciary of bias. “The Supreme Court has disarmed the governor while empowering his opponents. It is evident that political interests influenced this ruling,” he argued.
Retired Delta State judge, Miakpor Emiaso, also criticized the ruling, stating, “Denying the state government access to funds is punitive and could cripple governance.”
Bode George Supports Fubara’s Decision
Former Deputy National Chairman of the PDP, Chief Bode George, backed Governor Fubara’s plan to conduct fresh council elections, describing it as a “reasonable solution.” He also called on President Bola Tinubu to intervene, warning that the ruling could escalate into a national crisis.
“The people are already struggling. Cutting off local government allocations will worsen the situation. The Supreme Court should have ordered a new election rather than suspending funds,” George cautioned.
Rivers Elders Council Urges Unity
In a statement, the Rivers State Elders Council congratulated the people of Rivers on the Supreme Court’s verdict and called for unity between Governor Fubara and Speaker Martin Amaewhule to ensure smooth governance.
“With the Supreme Court’s ruling now clear, we urge the governor and the speaker to set aside personal differences and work together in the best interest of Rivers State,” said Chief Ferdinand Alabraba, Chairman of the Elders Council.
With the Supreme Court’s decision now setting the course for the state’s political landscape, all eyes are on the Rivers State government as it moves to implement the ruling. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether the political class can find common ground or if the crisis will deepen further.
For now, Governor Fubara’s next steps and the reactions of political stakeholders will shape the future of governance in Rivers State.
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