Segun Adeyemi

Facebook

Instagram

Twitter

LinkedIn

<h2>Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has condemned a recent court ruling suspending financial allocations to Rivers State, warning that it could erode public trust in Nigeria's judiciary. </h2>

The Abuja Federal High Court's order restraining the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) from releasing funds to Rivers has sparked fierce reactions, especially Atiku, who expressed deep concern over what he described as "federal interference" in state matters.

The injunction, issued by Justice Joyce Abdulmalik, prevents the state from receiving allocations until a properly constituted Rivers State House of Assembly passes an "appropriation act."

READ ALSO: <a href="https://www.pulse.ng/news/rivers-ruling-fubara-blames-tinubus-peace-accord-gives-reason/ppw1l24">Rivers Verdict: Fubara faults Tinubu's peace accord, gives key reason</a>

Martins Amaewhule's faction of the state assembly brought the suit, questioning the validity of Governor Siminalayi Fubara's budget presented to a five-member assembly.

Through his media adviser, Paul Ibe, Atiku argued that the decision to grant the injunction while Rivers' appeal remains pending is problematic.

"The judiciary's actions could destabilise Rivers State," Atiku warned, adding that "elements loyal to the federal government were pulling strings from behind."

READ ALSO: <a href="https://www.pulse.ng/news/local/rivers-governor-told-to-refund-illegally-spent-funds-after-court-ruling/fcsrb1c">Rivers Crisis: Fubara told to refund illegally spent funds after court ruling</a>

He further questioned the ruling's timing, pointing out that the Rivers State government had already filed a notice of appeal to bring the case before the Supreme Court.

Citing earlier alerts from senior lawyer Femi Falana, SAN, who had warned of possible judicial compromise involving gifts allegedly given to judges, Atiku's statement condemned the court's dismissal of these concerns.

"Falana's warning was ignored," the statement read, with Atiku underscoring that these developments pose a significant threat to Nigeria's judicial integrity and state autonomy.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar. [Getty Images]

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has condemned a recent court ruling suspending financial allocations to Rivers State, warning that it could erode public trust in Nigeria's judiciary.

Nigerians losing faith in judiciary – Atiku on Rivers verdict

<h2>The National Democratic and Change Coalition (NDCC) has called on Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara to refund state funds allegedly spent without approval, following a Federal High Court ruling. </h2>

The court recently ordered a freeze on further disbursements to Rivers State due to alleged constitutional violations in the state's budget process.

In her ruling, Justice Joyce Abdulmalik of the Federal High Court in Abuja found that Governor Fubara's presentation of<a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.pulse.ng/news/local/court-stops-cbn-allocations-to-rivers-govt-over-fubaras-budget-violations/6dlg1pw"> the 2024 budget to a four-member House of Assembly was constitutionally invalid. </a>

As a result, the court barred the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), the Accountant General of the Federation, and Rivers State accounts at Zenith Bank and Access Bank from releasing further funds to the state.

Reacting to the decision, the NDCC lauded Justice Abdulmalik for what they described as a "landmark judgement."

NDCC President John Uloko, in a statement, asserted that the ruling vindicates Rivers State residents.

He noted, "Since January 2024, Rivers State has received and spent allocations based on an 'illegitimate' budget—a constitutional aberration. This ruling upholds democracy and teaches rogue governors a bitter lesson in constitutional respect."

The NDCC, a coalition of legal professionals, further criticised Governor Fubara's reliance on a four-member Assembly.

Uloko emphasised, "Allowing four members to constitute a 32-member House of Assembly defies both logic and the constitution."

The coalition demanded that Governor Fubara reverse all decisions made under the disputed Assembly, calling it a "theatre of the absurd."

They urged the Governor to resubmit the state budget to a fully constituted Rivers State House of Assembly to ensure due process.

The statement urged, "Governor Fubara must respect the Constitution and let Rivers State breathe by halting unnecessary political strife."&nbsp;

The National Democratic and Change Coalition (NDCC) has called on Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara to refund state funds allegedly spent without approval, following a Federal High Court ruling.

Rivers Crisis: Fubara told to refund illegally spent funds after court ruling

<h2>The Coalition Against Corruption and Injustice (CACI) has raised alarms over alleged plots by certain politicians to compromise the judiciary's independence. </h2>

The group claims that Governor Simi Fubara is backing a campaign to pressure the judiciary, targeting Justices John Tsoho, Peter Lifu, and James Omotosho.

In a statement signed by CACI's leader, Prince Livinus Itodo, the group condemned the actions of the Joint Action for Democracy (JAD), which has called for the removal of these justices.

Itodo described the call as a "thinly veiled attempt to undermine the judiciary's integrity."

"Governor Fubara's involvement is particularly concerning," Itodo stated. "He has prioritized personal interests over the welfare of Rivers State citizens, abusing his power to silence opposition."

READ ALSO: <a href="https://www.pulse.ng/news/local/jonathan-raises-concerns-over-nigerias-democracy-judicial-system/ps8eyrd">Some court verdicts sadden me -Jonathan raises concerns over Nigeria’s democracy</a>

CACI warned that the allegations against the justices are baseless and lack evidence.

"This smear campaign seeks to erode public trust in the judiciary, creating an environment conducive to corruption and injustice," Itodo added.

The coalition urged the National Judicial Council (NJC) to investigate the matter and protect the judiciary from further attacks.

"We must not allow these tactics to succeed. The judiciary is a sacred institution essential to our democratic system. Its independence and impartiality are non-negotiable," said Itodo.

CACI commended the judiciary for its resilience and urged Nigerians to stand firm in defence of its integrity.

"We will not stand idly by while Governor Fubara and his allies attempt to compromise our judiciary," Itodo concluded.

Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara  [X-@SimFubaraKSC]

The Coalition Against Corruption and Injustice (CACI) has raised alarms over alleged plots by certain politicians to compromise the judiciary's independence.

Coalition condemns plot to blackmail judiciary, calls out Gov Fubara

<h2>Independent observers have attributed the violence and arson that overshadowed Rivers State's recent local government elections to the actions of Governor Siminalayi Fubara's supporters, according to a preliminary report from the Independent Election Monitoring Group (IEMG). </h2>

The report, released following widespread incidents of unrest, criticises the governor's handling of the electoral process and his alleged disregard for legal protocols.

Dr Emmanuel Agabi, Executive Director of IEMG, highlighted Fubara's "desperation to consolidate political power" as <a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.pulse.ng/news/politics/rivers-crisis-wike-opens-up-on-fubaras-sins/n56wnps">a central factor behind the post-election violence. </a>

"The Governor's insistence on proceeding with elections despite court rulings and security concerns exemplifies a worrisome disregard for due process," Agabi stated at a recent press conference.

The report also condemned the lack of election materials, non-use of electoral registers, and premature result declarations.

While t<a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.pulse.ng/news/politics/ex-apc-chieftain-demands-wike-egbetokuns-resignation-over-rivers-crisis/5pr1xff">he Nigerian Police faced criticism for their withdrawal from election duty</a>, the report exonerated them, clarifying that their absence resulted from a Federal High Court order.

"It is crucial to note that the police followed a court directive, and their withdrawal should not be misconstrued as negligence," Agabi clarified, attributing the unrest to Governor Fubara's supporters instead.

The report urges immediate action, recommending a comprehensive investigation into the arson cases, annulment of election results, federal security intervention, and dialogue with opposition parties.

It warned that "the state's political crisis will only worsen if urgent steps are not taken to restore accountability and respect for democratic principles."

Referring to the turbulent state of Rivers' democratic fabric, the report emphasised that "the use of arson as a political intimidation tool is not only reprehensible but dangerous, potentially leading to broader conflict."

It called on Governor Fubara to honour legal rulings and embrace dialogue to prevent escalating unrest.

Quoting former President Goodluck Jonathan, the report concluded, "This crisis serves as a warning sign of what could become a larger national issue if left unaddressed."

Observers stress that intervention by the federal government and other stakeholders is essential to restore peace and safeguard Rivers State's democratic future.

Independent observers have attributed the violence and arson that overshadowed Rivers State's recent local government elections to the actions of Governor Siminalayi Fubara's supporters, according to a preliminary report from the Independent Election Monitoring Group (IEMG).

Observers accuse Gov Fubara of fuelling violence in Rivers LG poll

<h2>In a fresh twist, the Court of Appeal in Abuja has ruled in favour of Martins Amaewhule as the legitimate Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, sparking celebration within the political camp of Nyesom Wike, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister and influential Rivers politician. </h2>

The court's decision, which declared Amaewhule's Assembly faction as the rightful body to pass the 2024 budget, has prompted Governor Siminalayi Fubara to challenge the ruling at the Supreme Court.

Governor Fubara expressed strong disagreement with the judgment, highlighting his administration's commitment to seek redress.

"The Court of Appeal may have ruled on an issue that was not properly before it," stated Danagogo Iboroma, Rivers State's Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, who signed the statement confirming the governor's intention to appeal.

The Court of Appeal's decision dismisses the governor's appeal and reaffirms the lower court's ruling that Amaewhule's faction constitutes the valid Assembly leadership.

READ ALSO: <a href="https://www.pulse.ng/news/local/appeal-court-scolds-fubara-over-assembly-crisis-nullifies-naira800bn-budget/tg23le7">A joke taken too far - Appeal Court scolds Fubara over Assembly feud, voids budget</a>

It further censured the Fubara administration, asserting that budget expenditures made without the approval of Amaewhule's Assembly are "illegal."

The court also imposed a fine of ₦500,000 on Governor Fubara for what it described as a "blatant disregard for court orders."

The court did not hold back in its criticism, noting, "The Governor of Rivers State has the passion to disobey court orders, which is unbecoming of someone with good culture."

This firm stance against Fubara's actions has heightened tensions as his administration scrambles to file a stay of execution on the ruling.

READ ALSO: <a href="https://www.pulse.ng/news/politics/rivers-crisis-wike-opens-up-on-fubaras-sins/n56wnps">Wike opens up on Fubara's sins, gives condition to end Rivers crisis</a>

Amid the political turmoil, the governor appealed for calm, urging Rivers residents to dismiss what he described as "fake news" intended to mislead the public.

"His Excellency, the Governor of Rivers State, urges the good people of Rivers State to ignore the purveyors of fake news," emphasised the Attorney-General's statement.

The ongoing legal battle, now poised for the Supreme Court, underscores the deepening rift between Governor Fubara and key political forces within the state.

FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike and Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State.  [DailyTrust/Facebook]

In a fresh twist, the Court of Appeal in Abuja has ruled in favour of Martins Amaewhule as the legitimate Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, sparking celebration within the political camp of Nyesom Wike, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister and influential Rivers politician.

Fubara defeated as appeal court grants major victory to Wike

<h2>Rivers State, Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, has accused Governor Sim Fubara of engaging in anti-party activities by supporting the Action Peoples Party (APP) during the recent local government elections. </h2>

Wike made the allegations during an appearance on Channels TV's Politics Today, asserting that <a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.pulse.ng/news/politics/rivers-crisis-wike-opens-up-on-fubaras-sins/n56wnps">Fubara's actions undermined the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).</a>

Wike stated, “Today, people say discipline Wike because he did anti-party, but I say that I did not do anti-party. Today, what happened? The governor sponsored APP, and Bala Mohammed was the one who attended the swearing-in of the APP Chairmen.”

He expressed frustration over Fubara's defiance of the party's agreed-upon strategies, insisting, “I said I wouldn’t support injustice and I have no apology to render to anybody because PDP had agreed on what to do, but he refused.”

READ ALSO: <a href="https://www.pulse.ng/news/politics/no-apologies-for-opposing-pdp-in-2023-election-wike/6cejk6k">Wike declares 'no regret' for oposing PDP in 2023 election</a>

The political tensions between Wike and Fubara have escalated as they vie for control over the political landscape of Rivers State.

The conflict has raised concerns within the PDP, as party unity appears to be at stake following the local elections that saw the APP gain ground.

Wike's accusations reflect a growing discontent within the party, indicating a potential fallout that could have lasting implications for the political future of Rivers State.

FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike and Governor Sim Fubara of Rivers State. [Facebook]

Rivers State, Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, has accused Governor Sim Fubara of engaging in anti-party activities by supporting the Action Peoples Party (APP) during the recent local government elections.

Rivers crisis: Wike accuses Fubara of Anti-party activities

<h2>In a fierce rebuttal to the Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, the Rivers State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has defended Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s decision to proceed with the local government elections held on October 5, despite a court ruling.</h2>

Wike had publicly expressed his discontent during an interview on Channels TV, claiming that the elections contravened a Federal High Court judgement issued by Justice Peter Lifu.

The ruling stated that the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) had failed to publish a mandatory 90-day notice before the election date and barred the Independent National Electoral Commission from providing the voter register.

READ ALSO: <a href="https://www.pulse.ng/news/gov-fubara-orders-judicial-probe-into-recent-wave-of-violence-in-rivers/yehhw4m">Gov Fubara orders judicial probe into recent wave of violence in Rivers</a>

Despite the court’s decision, Governor Fubara went ahead with the elections, leading to significant unrest, including violent clashes between supporters of Wike and Fubara.

The aftermath saw arson attacks on government property, including the burning of the Ikwerre Local Government secretariat.

In response to Wike's accusations that Fubara was undermining democracy, Sydney Gbara, the PDP's publicity secretary, urged Wike and his supporters to seek legal recourse if they were dissatisfied with the election results.

“No court judgement can stop an electoral process,” Gbara stated. “If you are not okay with an election, you can approach the court after it is conducted.”

Gbara further emphasised that the push for local government elections was part of President Bola Tinubu’s 2023 peace proclamation, remarking on the irony of Wike's current opposition.

He described Fubara as a hero for his commitment to democratic processes, asserting, “Innocent people were killed in cold blood all in a bid to frustrate the electoral process. The truth is that they came late because Rivers people have decided to move on with Fubara.”

The controversy underscores a significant rift within Rivers State politics, as both parties grapple with the implications of the recent elections and the underlying tensions in the region.

Siminlayi Fubara and Nyesom Ezenwo Wike [Facebook]

In a fierce rebuttal to the Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, the Rivers State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has defended Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s decision to proceed with the local government elections held on October 5, despite a court ruling.

Rivers crisis: PDP lambasts Wike, declares Fubara 'hero'

<h2>In response to the recent wave of arson, killings, and destruction across local government council headquarters in Rivers State, Governor Siminalayi Fubara has taken decisive action by establishing a Judicial Commission of Inquiry. </h2>

The commission, a seven-member body, is tasked with investigating the violence that erupted after the state’s local government elections, leading to significant property damage and loss of life.

The commission, chaired by Justice Ibiwengi Roseline Minakiri, was inaugurated at the Executive Chambers of Government House in Port Harcourt.

Governor Fubara expressed deep concern over the rising violence, likening it to the turmoil experienced during the 2015 general election cycle.

“We will not look away while ill-guided youths and sponsored political thugs turn Rivers into a theatre of violence,” he declared, underscoring the state’s determination to hold those responsible accountable.

READ ALSO: <a href="https://www.pulse.ng/news/fubara-questions-tinubus-stance-on-rivers-crisis/ry69m2b">'My name was only mentioned' - Fubara questions Tinubu's stance on Rivers crisis</a>

Reflecting on recent incidents, Fubara remarked on the threats and hostilities that had escalated before and after the local elections.

He acknowledged initial beliefs that the state could manage the unrest but lamented the subsequent surge in violence.

“We never took [the threats] seriously… but it is very unfortunate that after the election, the violence continued,” he said, emphasising the urgent need to restore peace and order.

The commission’s mandate is comprehensive, covering a range of investigative actions. Governor Fubara states it will “determine the underlying causes of the violence and identify individuals or groups responsible.”

READ ALSO: <a href="https://www.pulse.ng/news/politics/ex-apc-chieftain-demands-wike-egbetokuns-resignation-over-rivers-crisis/5pr1xff">Ex-APC chieftain demands Wike, Egbetokun's resignation over Rivers crisis</a>

He also noted that the commission will evaluate damage to property, estimate financial losses, and examine the extent of harm inflicted on citizens. The commission has been urged to assess whether the violence was politically motivated and pinpoint key actors in instigating these attacks.

Governor Fubara outlined that the commission should scrutinise the role of security agencies, highlight areas needing improvement, and recommend measures for future prevention.

“This is a responsibility that history will not forget,” Fubara reminded commission members, stressing the importance of their work in shaping a more peaceful future for Rivers State.

In response to the recent wave of arson, killings, and destruction across local government council headquarters in Rivers State, Governor Siminalayi Fubara has taken decisive action by establishing a Judicial Commission of Inquiry.

Gov Fubara orders judicial probe into recent wave of violence in Rivers

<h2>Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has shed light on the crisis brewing in Rivers State, accusing Governor Siminalayi Fubara of attempting to remove the Speaker of the House of Assembly, Martin Amaewhule. </h2>

Speaking on Channels Television's Politics Today, Wike disclosed the alleged plot led to the ongoing <a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.pulse.ng/news/local/rivers-speaker-tells-police-ig-to-go-after-thugs-burning-lg-secretariats/b76trgx">political turmoil in the state.</a>

According to Wike, the attempt backfired, intensifying divisions within the state's leadership.

"Has Fubara told you I demanded any money from him? I have never done that," Wike stated, dismissing rumours of personal conflict.

"The problem is that he plotted a coup to remove the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, and the thing boomeranged against him."

<h3>Wike's condition for peace</h3>

Wike further advised that Governor Fubara respect court orders, warning that failure to do so could deepen the crisis.

"If he respects court orders, he can prevent anarchy and further breakdown of law and order in Rivers," Wike said, implying that the court's involvement could stabilize the state.

Meanwhile, Governor Fubara has vowed to arrest and prosecute the individuals allegedly behind recent violent incidents, which have left <a data-link-role-code="open_new_tab" href="https://www.pulse.ng/news/rivers-violence-escalates-as-lga-offices-covered-in-corpses-police-absent/tvngr1v">five people dead and many injured</a> and resulted in the destruction of properties worth billions.

Fubara's administration has pledged zero tolerance for political thuggery and violence that endangers the state's peace and economy.

In response to Fubara's judicial panel to investigate the mayhem, Wike criticized the move, saying, "The governor said he knew who masterminded the attack. Why then waste public funds to investigate what you said you know?"

The conflict has thrown Rivers State into unrest, disrupting local operations and sparking concerns over prolonged instability.

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has shed light on the crisis brewing in Rivers State, accusing Governor Siminalayi Fubara of attempting to remove the Speaker of the House of Assembly, Martin Amaewhule.

Wike opens up on Fubara's sins, gives condition to end Rivers crisis

<h2>The Centre for Truth and Justice (CTJ) has strongly condemned the recent local government elections in Rivers State, labelling the process an "abuse of democracy." </h2>

The Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) conducted the election on Saturday, October 5, despite a Federal High Court ruling in Abuja that halted the process due to procedural violations.

Justice Peter Lifu ruled that RSIEC had failed to publish the legally mandated 90-day notice before scheduling the election, a requirement that safeguards transparency and fairness.

In response, the court restricted the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from providing voter registration data and prohibited the Nigeria Police and the Department of State Services (DSS) from securing the polling activities.

Despite these legal barriers, the elections proceeded, and the Action Peoples Party (APP) won 22 out of the 23 local government chairmanships.

At a press conference in Abuja, Obinna Francis, Executive Director of the Centre for Truth and Justice, described the election as lacking "transparency, accountability, or legitimacy."

READ ALSO: <a href="https://www.pulse.ng/news/eleme-lga-secretariat-in-rivers-set-ablaze/dd5s5hd">BREAKING: Eleme LGA secretariat in Rivers set ablaze</a>

According to Francis, Governor Siminalayi Fubara's decision to proceed with the elections was "a dangerous precedent that threatens the very fabric of our democracy."

He further criticised the governor's actions, calling the election a "travesty of democracy, an affront to the will of the people, and a direct assault on the rule of law."

Francis also highlighted that the election "violated every democratic principle that this nation stands for," urging for strict adherence to democratic procedures in future polls.

The Centre's denouncement calls into question the legitimacy of Rivers State's local government administration, spotlighting concerns over accountability in the state's political processes.

The Centre for Truth and Justice (CTJ) has strongly condemned the recent local government elections in Rivers State, labelling the process an "abuse of democracy."

'Abuse of democracy' - Fubara suffers backlash over outcome of Rivers LG poll

Politics

Local

Metro

World

News 

Celebrities

Music

Movies

Entertainment

Fashion

Beauty & Health

Relationships & Weddings

Food & Travel

Lifestyle

Domestic

International 

Business

About

Highlights

Selection Criteria

Jury

Terms And Conditions

FAQs

Pulse Influencer Awards

Sports 

Celebrity Picks

Pulse Picks

Courses

Careers

Pulse Marketing

Explore categories

Sim Fubara

Pulse Nigeria is the most followed news and entertainment platform, informing and engaging young Nigerians round the clock, providing updates by the hour.