Court of Appeal Voids N800bn Rivers State Budget, Slams Fubara’s Executive Overreach

The Court of Appeal in Abuja has affirmed the nullification of the N800 billion budget passed by just five members of the Rivers State House of Assembly, led by Edison Ehie. The court dismissed the appeal filed by Governor Siminalayi Fubara, stating that it lacked merit and highlighted significant constitutional violations.

The Rivers State 2024 budget was earlier voided by the Federal High Court due to its passage by a faction of the Assembly, a move that excluded 26 lawmakers loyal to former governor and current FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike. Fubara’s decision to present the budget to only four lawmakers from the 31-member Assembly was deemed a “gross violation” of Section 91 of the 1999 Constitution, which requires the involvement of the majority of elected lawmakers.

Governor of Rivers state, Sir Siminalayi Fubara

In its ruling, the appellate court emphasized that Governor Fubara could not challenge the judgment because he had withdrawn his counter-affidavit at the Federal High Court, effectively nullifying his right to appeal. The court’s unanimous decision also validated the Amaewhule-led lawmakers, affirming them as the legitimate members of the Rivers State Assembly.

The court further criticized Governor Fubara’s actions, describing the situation as an “executive dictatorship” and a “joke taken too far.” The judgment serves as a crucial reminder of the need for adherence to the rule of law in Nigeria’s democratic process.

Written by Boom RadioNG