Rivers Crisis: Fubara Faults Tinubu's Intervention

Rift Deepens as Fubara Criticizes Tinubu's Role

The situation highlights the complex political landscape in Rivers State, with...

Rivers State Allocation Crisis: Federal High Court Orders CBN to Freeze Funds Over 2024 Budget Dispute, Governor Fubara Vows Appeal Amid Political Turmoil.

Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State seems unfazed by a recent Federal High Court ruling that halted the Central Bank of Nigeria's disbursement of state allocations. This ruling stems from Fubara's administration allegedly violating the 1999 Constitution by not presenting the 2024 budget to the state's House of Assembly.

The court's decision, issued by Justice Joyce Abdulmalik on October 30, deemed the budget approval by a four-member faction of the Rivers House of Assembly as “constitutionally aberrant.” Consequently, the Central Bank and other financial institutions were ordered to freeze further allocations to Rivers State.

Fubara's calm demeanor may be attributed to President Bola Tinubu's intervention, which has helped maintain stability amidst tensions with an opposing faction of the state House of Assembly, led by Martin Amaewhule and loyal to Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike. The governor's peace-driven approach, however, has reportedly strengthened his political adversaries.

Reactions:

Rivers Government: Commissioner Joseph Johnson confirmed the state's appeal against the ruling, expressing confidence in a favorable outcome.

Opposition Faction: Pro-Wike groups celebrated the ruling as a victory for the rule of law.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar: Criticized the ruling, warning that the judiciary is exacerbating political instability in Rivers.

The situation highlights the complex political landscape in Rivers State, with Governor Fubara navigating challenges from both within and outside his administration.

Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State reassured the public at a thanksgiving service that payments to contractors and state workers' salaries will proceed as planned starting October 31. This includes allocations to the 23 local council chairmen, following completion of necessary Joint Accounts Allocation Committee processes.

Fubara urged supporters to remain steadfast, emphasizing resilience in navigating challenges. Reflecting on his administration's journey, he highlighted accomplishments such as local council elections, a fully functional cabinet, and ongoing projects. To counter critics, Fubara cited Rivers State's recent commendations for financial transparency and accountability.

Some notable achievements under Fubara's administration include significant strides in infrastructure and revenue generation, despite inheriting an unprecedented ₦200 billion debt from 34 uncompleted projects. His government has also prioritized education, allocating over ₦25 billion for textbook supplies, examination fees, and scholarships.

Achievements:

Infrastructure Development: Port Harcourt Ring Road and Trans-Kalabari Road projects

Revenue Growth: Increased Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) from ₦12 billion to ₦28 billion per month

Education: Allocation of over ₦25 billion for textbooks, examination fees, and scholarships

Healthcare: Completion of 10 medical infrastructure projects and combating Lassa fever outbreak

Fubara's administration aims to make Rivers State one of Nigeria's best, with a focus on good governance, transparency, and accountability 

Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State remains committed to peace despite the recent turmoil in the state. He referenced the arson attack on the State House of Assembly on October 29, 2023, as a politically motivated incident orchestrated by his rivals. This attack was allegedly a response to a strategic legal decision involving the Martin Amaewhule faction, which was influenced by President Bola Tinubu's mediation.

Fubara acknowledged that his peace-seeking approach, prompted by Tinubu's intervention, may have inadvertently empowered his opponents. However, he expressed no regrets over his decision, emphasizing his dedication to peace and the betterment of Rivers State. The governor attributed the crisis to the damage of the state House of Assembly complex by fire and the subsequent split of the assembly into two factions.

Major Developments:

Arson Attack: The State House of Assembly was damaged by fire on October 29, 2023.

Political Crisis: The assembly split into two factions, with one faction claiming to have impeached and suspended the House Leader and three others.

Presidential Intervention: President Tinubu's mediation initiated communication channels to resolve the crisis peacefully.

Governor's Response: Fubara apologized to the people of Rivers State for the anxiety caused by recent events and expressed gratitude for their continued support and prayers.

Fubara reaffirmed his commitment to continuity and public service, ensuring timely payments to contractors and civil servants despite the financial constraints imposed by the court ruling. He emphasized the collective responsibility of himself and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, to advance the progress, security, and well-being of the people.