Fubara criticizes President Tinubu’s intervention, claiming it empowered his rivals after a court order. Explore the unfolding political tension and its potential impacts.
On Wednesday, Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara expressed his lack of concern regarding the Federal High Court’s ruling that prevents the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) from distributing state allocations.
This aligns with the governor’s statement that his approach to the crisis, in line with President Bola Tinubu’s intervention, strengthened his opponents.
Governor Fubara expressed no regrets about pursuing peace, though he acknowledged that this approach might have unintentionally strengthened his opponents.
On Wednesday, Justice Joyce Abdulmalik of the Federal High Court in Abuja issued a ruling preventing the CBN from distributing monthly financial allocations to the Rivers State Government.
The decision referenced a breach of the 1999 Constitution concerning the submission of the 2024 budget to a four-member Rivers State House of Assembly.
Justice Abdulmalik declared that Governor Fubara’s distribution of monthly allocations since January this year violated the Constitution.
During a special thanksgiving service celebrating his administration’s resilience amidst recent political turmoil, including an arson attack on the State House of Assembly on October 29, 2023, Fubara assured the people of Rivers that his administration would resume contractor payments and ensure timely salary distribution to workers beginning Thursday.
READ ALSO: Fubara Responds to Rivers Allocation Order: ‘It’s the Least of My Concerns’
Governor Fubara announced that the allocations for all 23 Council Chairmen would be processed, following the finalization of procedures by the Joint Accounts Allocation Committee (JAAC).
He urged his supporters to stay resilient, highlighting that any challenge can be surmounted.
Reflecting on his administration’s achievements, Governor Fubara highlighted that despite initial doubts about the endurance of his government, he has successfully led for over a year. He also conducted local government elections and maintained a complete cabinet in the face of attempts to undermine his leadership.
He emphasized the ongoing projects across the state, addressing criticisms about his administration’s ability to deliver.
Fubara pointed out recent recognitions highlighting Rivers State as a leader in financial accountability and transparency.
In recalling the violent incident from October 30 of last year, which was described by the governor as an assassination attempt, Fubara blamed political opponents for ambushing him. This assault reportedly occurred after he withdrew legal action related to the Martin Amaewhule group—a decision influenced by President Bola Tinubu’s intervention.
Governor Fubara, though expressing no regrets for pursuing peace, admitted that this approach might have unintentionally strengthened his opponents.
