Rivers State faces heightened tensions as the Federal High Court in Abuja orders a freeze on monthly allocations, citing alleged constitutional breaches by Governor Sim Fubara. This ruling intensifies the ongoing conflict between Fubara and Minister Nyesom Wike, with CBN and key financial institutions instructed to withhold funds.
Rivers State is embroiled in a deepening crisis as the Federal High Court in Abuja orders the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to halt monthly allocations to the state. This decision comes amidst escalating tensions between Governor Sim Fubara and Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike—a conflict that has stirred public debate and political unrest in the region.
In a ruling on Wednesday, Justice Joyce Abdulmalik deemed Fubara’s receipt and disbursement of monthly allocations since January a “constitutional aberration,” directly challenging his governance. The judge expressed concern that Fubara’s presentation of the 2024 budget before a four-member Rivers House of Assembly disregarded constitutional protocols and portrayed a significant breach of governance.
The court’s stance echoes concerns over Governor Fubara’s alleged violations, claiming he failed to protect the constitution he swore to uphold. Consequently, the CBN, Accountant General of the Federation, Zenith Bank, and Access Bank are restrained from releasing funds from the Consolidated Revenue and Federation Account to Rivers State.
The decision has triggered outrage across political circles, with many seeing the freeze as an attempt to undermine Fubara’s administration amidst his ongoing feud with Wike. Observers argue that this crisis originated with deep-rooted disagreements between Wike and Fubara—disputes that have recently spilled into the public eye, fueling statewide political divisions.
As Rivers State officials await further directives, the freeze on funds threatens to paralyze state operations and heighten tensions between local and federal authorities. With Minister Wike’s influence extending across regional politics, the standoff is expected to escalate unless swift mediation occurs.
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