The decision to halt the release of Rivers State’s monthly allocations by financial institutions, including the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and Zenith Bank, has drawn sharp criticism from a coalition of civil society organizations (CSOs). Competent Governance for Accountability and Civic Trust (CGACT), leading the charge, has warned that the court order undermines democratic values and poses a significant threat to state autonomy.
Speaking at a press briefing, CGACT’s executive director, Comrade Godwin Erheriene, expressed deep concern over the implications of the judgment. “This decision is not just a legal misstep; it infringes on the fundamental rights of Rivers State citizens and disrupts the delicate balance of federalism enshrined in our constitution,” he said.
Erheriene argued that the ruling contradicts established legal precedents, particularly the landmark case involving former President Olusegun Obasanjo and Governor Bola Ahmed Tinubu of Lagos State. That case, he noted, reinforced the constitutional principle that states are entitled to their statutory allocations regardless of federal government actions.
“By blocking these allocations, the judgment not only undermines state governance but also challenges the authority of the Supreme Court,” Erheriene emphasized. “This could set a dangerous precedent where lower court decisions override the highest court in the land, destabilizing our legal framework.”
The coalition called on President Bola Tinubu, himself a victim of similar federal overreach during his governorship, to intervene and ensure that the judiciary acts in accordance with constitutional principles. They stressed that Nigeria’s federal system requires a clear separation of powers and respect for state autonomy to function effectively.
Beyond the legal implications, CGACT warned of potential unrest in Rivers State if the matter is not resolved promptly. “This is not just a legal battle; it’s a question of governance and the rights of the people,” Erheriene said. “The federal government must act swiftly to prevent further escalation and protect the democratic values that bind this nation together.”
The group concluded by urging all stakeholders to prioritize dialogue and constitutional adherence, cautioning that the erosion of state rights could lead to broader instability within the federation. They emphasized that the judiciary’s role is crucial in preserving the integrity of Nigeria’s democracy and ensuring justice for all.
