Peter Obi, the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, has strongly criticized the federal government for releasing Rivers State’s allocation to the newly appointed Sole Administrator, Ibok-Ete Ibas.
Obi described the move as a blatant disregard for the Supreme Court’s ruling and a threat to Nigeria’s democracy.
The Supreme Court had earlier ruled that the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) must not release funds to Rivers State until the State House of Assembly approves a budget.
Despite this, the federal government released the allocation following the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the appointment of a Sole Administrator.
Violation of Supreme Court Order
Reaching for his mobile phone, Obi tweeted objections to the federal government’s actions. He posted, “What is happening in Rivers State is an aberration, unknown to our Constitution and must be condemned by every discerning mind.”
He argued that the release of funds violates the Supreme Court’s explicit order. which “barred the CBN and the Accountant-General of the Federation from releasing these funds until a valid Appropriation Act is passed. Yet, this order is being ignored.”
He warned that such actions undermine the rule of law and set a dangerous precedent. “By disregarding the judgment of the Supreme Court, those involved are challenging the authority of the highest court in our country,” Obi wrote.
He also criticized the CBN and the Accountant-General for their role in the matter. “These institutions, meant to uphold the law, should not be complicit in this disregard for our judiciary.”
Call for Accountability
Obi explained the broader implications of the situation, saying, “This is about more than just Rivers State; it is about protecting the very fabric of our democracy.” He urged the federal government to respect the rule of law and uphold democratic principles.
He concluded, “A country cannot function where the rule of law is trampled upon, where judicial decisions are treated as mere suggestions. We must choose to do the right thing — to respect the law and uphold the principles that bind us as a nation.”
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