Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State has expressed indifference to the Federal High Court’s decision to halt the Central Bank of Nigeria’s (CBN) release of state allocations.
This ruling, delivered by Justice Joyce Abdulmalik, cited a breach of the 1999 Constitution regarding the presentation of the 2024 budget before a four-member Rivers State House of Assembly.
The court’s decision has sparked controversy, with many questioning its potential impact on the state’s finances. However, Governor Fubara remains resolute, assuring Rivers people that his administration will continue to disburse payments to contractors and ensure timely salary payments to workers.
During a special thanksgiving service, Fubara reflected on his administration’s achievements, highlighting ongoing projects and recent accolades positioning Rivers State as a leader in financial accountability and transparency. He encouraged his supporters to maintain their resilience, emphasizing that challenges can be overcome.
Despite the court ruling, Governor Fubara confirmed that allocations for the 23 Council Chairmen would be processed, as the Joint Accounts Allocation Committee (JAAC) procedures have been finalized. The Rivers State Government has also appealed the ruling, expressing confidence that the Appeal Court will overturn it.
The legal dispute comes amid heightened tensions between Governor Fubara and an opposition group in the Rivers State House of Assembly, led by Martin Amaewhule and loyal to Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar criticized the ruling, warning that the judiciary was exacerbating political instability in Rivers.
