The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) has expressed deep concern over a Federal High Court ruling that suspends financial allocations from the Central Bank of Nigeria to Rivers State. In a statement issued by CISLAC Executive Director, Auwal Rafsanjani, the organization warned that such decisions pose serious threats to Nigeria’s democracy.
According to CISLAC, the judgement undermines the rule of law and tenets of democracy, and may erode public trust. Rafsanjani noted that Nigeria’s states are vital components of the constitutional framework, and blocking allocations risks destabilization and endangers regions currently at peace.
*Key Concerns Raised by CISLAC:*
– _Undermining Autonomy_: The ruling undermines the autonomy of Rivers State and sets a dangerous precedent.
– _Eroding Public Trust_: Such rulings can erode public trust and discourage investment.
– _International Implications_: Actions that disrupt constitutional allocations harm Nigeria’s global standing and drive away potential investors.
– _Judicial Integrity_: The organization urged the Chief Justice of Nigeria to maintain judicial standards and caution judges against destabilizing rulings.
CISLAC called on the judiciary, executive, and stakeholders to uphold democratic principles and prioritize the welfare of Nigerians. The organization emphasized that the nation’s stability, unity, and progress must remain at the forefront of governance efforts.
