Atiku Abubakar Criticizes Judiciary Over Ruling on Rivers State Financial Allocation
By Wisdom Tide
October 31, 2024
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has voiced strong criticism of the judiciary, arguing that recent rulings could undermine public confidence and potentially lead to civil unrest. This follows a controversial court decision barring financial allocations to Rivers State, which Abubakar claims is part of a worrying trend in Nigeria's judicial system.
Court Order Sparks Public Outcry
A federal high court in Abuja recently ordered the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to suspend financial allocations to Rivers State until a legally constituted house of assembly passes an appropriation act. Joyce Abdulmalik, the presiding judge, ruled that Governor Siminalayi Fubara acted improperly by presenting the 2024 Appropriation Bill to a five-member assembly she deemed not properly constituted. The ruling came in response to a lawsuit filed by the Rivers State House of Assembly, led by factional speaker Martins Amaewhule.
This decision has sparked widespread criticism, with many arguing that it unfairly penalizes Rivers State and jeopardizes its financial stability. Atiku Abubakar, through a statement by his media adviser Paul Ibe, warned that the judiciary’s actions could destabilize the region, creating conditions that could lead to disorder.
Criticism of Alleged Federal Influence on the Judiciary
Abubakar expressed concern over perceived federal interference, suggesting that forces loyal to the federal government are exerting influence over the judiciary. He specifically questioned Abdulmalik’s decision to issue an injunction while Rivers State’s legal appeal is ongoing. “Elements in the Bola Tinubu administration have procured a judgement intended to undermine the Supreme Court,” he said.
This sentiment was echoed by prominent legal figures, including Femi Falana (SAN), who previously warned of potential compromises within the judiciary. Falana had alerted the Chief Justice of the Federal High Court about gifts allegedly presented to judges in Abuja, a move seen as a potential attempt to sway judicial outcomes.
Growing Distrust in the Judiciary
Abubakar expressed his concern that the Nigerian judiciary is descending into a "theater of the absurd," with courts playing an increasingly destabilizing role. He cited instances of judicial interference in political matters across various states, including the emirship issue in Kano and the legal disputes in Rivers, likening the current situation to Nigeria's political crisis following the annulment of the June 12, 1993, elections.
Abubakar warned that if the judiciary continues down this path, Nigerians will lose faith in what is supposed to be the last hope of the common man. He further highlighted the economic implications, cautioning that foreign investors are unlikely to invest in a country where judicial outcomes can be swayed by the highest bidder.
Rivers State’s Economic Significance and National Implications
Rivers State, which contributes nearly 25% of Nigeria’s oil revenue, plays a critical role in the country’s economy. Abubakar urged President Tinubu to prioritize national interests over political ambition, given the severe economic crisis exacerbated by issues like oil theft and vandalism. He emphasized that the ongoing judicial crisis in Rivers State could have far-reaching consequences if not swiftly resolved.
Support for Judicial Accountability
Abubakar commended Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) Kudirat Kekere-Ekun for summoning judges handling Rivers State cases, encouraging her to take further steps to discipline any judges found to be in violation of ethical standards. Judicial integrity, he argued, is paramount to restoring public trust in the institution.
Background on the Rivers State Dispute
The conflict began in December 2023, when Governor Fubara presented an N800 billion budget to a faction of the Rivers State House of Assembly led by Edison Ehie. The budget, titled “Budget of Renewed Hope, Consolidation, and Continuity,” was contested by the Amaewhule-led faction, which subsequently filed a suit against the CBN and nine other parties.
The plaintiffs, aligned with Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike, sought an injunction to prevent financial institutions from honoring any instructions issued by Fubara’s administration. The court dismissed objections from Fubara and other defendants, ruling that the governor’s actions violated the 1999 Constitution by implementing an “unlawful budget.”
Calls for Reform in Nigeria’s Judiciary
Promoters of good governance, led by Comrade Edward Ibianga, have called for stricter accountability measures within the judiciary, advocating for the dismissal of corrupt judicial officials like Judge Joyce Abdulmalik. They argue that decisive action is necessary to deter corrupt practices and prevent Nigeria from descending into civil unrest.
As Abubakar and other prominent figures continue to question the impartiality of the judiciary, it remains to be seen whether reforms will be implemented to restore public confidence in Nigeria's legal system. The outcome of the Rivers State dispute will likely serve as a critical test of the judiciary’s role in upholding justice and stability within Nigeria
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