The Supreme Court, issued a directive halting the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Attorney General of the Federation (AG-F), from releasing any further funds to the Rivers State Government until a valid Appropriation Act is passed by a lawfully constituted House of Assembly, with Martins Amaewhule serving as Speaker.
In a unanimous decision on Friday, a five-member panel of the Court also ruled that Amaewhule, alongside the 26 other members of the Rivers State House of Assembly accused of defection, must be allowed to resume their legislative duties without obstruction.
Furthermore, the Supreme Court mandated that all members of the Rivers State House of Assembly be allowed to resume their regular legislative activities without interference.
Justice Emmanuel Agim, delivering the lead judgment, sharply criticized the actions of Governor Simi Fubara, noting that his attempts to dissolve the Rivers State House of Assembly in response to fears of an impeachment were unlawful and aimed at undermining the state’s governance.
The Court also overturned a previous judgment by the Court of Appeal, which had ruled that the Federal High Court lacked jurisdiction over cases concerning Rivers State’s funds.
In addition, the Supreme Court imposed a N50 million cost on Fubara and the Rivers State Government, to be paid to the Rivers State House of Assembly and Amaewhule.
More details to follow.
