Rivers State is on edge as Governor Siminalayi Fubara prepares to implement the Supreme Court’s controversial verdict, which invalidated the state’s local council polls and halted federal allocations. Hobnob News delves into the unfolding political drama, marked by legal complexities, calls for compromise, and mounting public anxiety.
Governor Fubara, in a statewide broadcast, assured residents that his administration would adhere to the Supreme Court’s judgment, albeit with reservations. He revealed that his legal team expects to receive the Certified True Copy (CTC) of the judgment by March 7, 2025, and pledged to implement it “without reservations.”
“Although we disagree with the judgments, we are bound to obey the orders made therein as a law-abiding government,” Fubara stated. He directed Heads of Local Government Administration to take over the councils, pending fresh elections by the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission, and ordered outgoing chairmen to hand over by March 3, 2025.
The Supreme Court’s ruling, which also instructed the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and Accountant-General of the Federation to cease monthly federal allocations to the state’s local governments, has triggered widespread reactions. South-South leaders, including Chief Sara-Igbe, the Pan-Niger Delta Youths Forum (PANDYEF), and PDP chieftain Olabode George, have expressed concerns over the judgment’s implications.
Calls for political compromise have emerged, with South-South leaders urging Governor Fubara, Minister Nyesom Wike, and the political class to find a resolution that respects the Supreme Court’s decision. Brigadier-General Idada Ikponmwen (retd.) emphasized the need for a “political solution” without compromising the court’s verdict.
“The political class, which is the governor, the lawmakers, and the political leaders in the state, should find a way out of the issue politically without compromising the court’s decision. In my opinion, that is the best way to go in this situation,” Ikponmwen stated.
Elder Joseph Ambakederimo, Convener of the South-South Reawakening Group (SSRG), stressed the far-reaching implications of non-compliance, urging the governor to “tow the path of peace.”
However, the Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) has criticized the judgment, calling for its reconsideration. PANDEF spokesperson Obiuwevbi Ominimini described the verdict as “counter-productive” and a threat to “economic stability, social justice, and national unity.”
Chief Anabs Sara-Igbe, an Ijaw leader, accused the judiciary of being “compromised,” questioning the rationale behind invalidating the Rivers State council polls. Retired Delta judge Miakpor Emiaso deemed the CBN allocation halt “a bit harsh,” fearing it could “ground the system.”
PANDYEF also condemned the Supreme Court’s decision, labeling it “an economic sabotage” and a threat to peace in the Niger Delta. Mr. Chika Art Adiele, PANDYEF spokesman, warned against any attempt to “seize power by judicial fiat.”
Conversely, Chief Bode George aligned with Governor Fubara’s decision to conduct fresh council polls, describing it as “the most sensible thing to do.” He urged President Bola Tinubu to intervene, warning that the allocation halt could “cause problem for the country.”
The Rivers State Elders Council, in a statement by Chairman Chief Ferdinand Alabraba, congratulated the people of Rivers State on the Supreme Court’s “well-rounded pronouncement.” They called on Governor Fubara and Speaker Martin Amaewhule to “work together in the best interest of the state.”
As Rivers State navigates this complex political landscape, the implementation of the Supreme Court’s ruling remains a delicate balancing act, with potential ramifications for the state’s stability and governance. Hobnob News will continue to provide updates on this developing situation.
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