NDF Accuses Wike of Undermining Rivers State with Compromised Judicial Rulings
By Wisdom Tide
November 1, 2024
The National Democratic Front (NDF) has called on Nigeria’s Chief Justice, Hon. Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun, to urgently address what it claims to be a crisis of integrity within Nigeria’s judiciary. This appeal comes amid concerns over alleged judicial interference in Rivers State that the NDF claims threatens national stability and the reputation of the judiciary.
Allegations Against Wike and Judicial Integrity
In a statement on October 31, 2024, NDF spokesperson Engr. Ikenna Ellis Ezenekwe accused Nyesom Wike, the former Governor of Rivers State and current Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, of manipulating judicial outcomes for political advantage. The group alleged that Wike’s actions not only jeopardize President Bola Tinubu’s administration but also undermine public trust in the judiciary.
The NDF highlighted a series of “conflicting and compromised rulings” in cases related to the ongoing Rivers State crisis, which they contend are aimed at furthering Wike’s political agenda. One controversial ruling cited by the NDF was a court order halting monthly allocations to Rivers State from the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN).
Disruption of Essential Services in Rivers State
The NDF expressed grave concern that the suspension of Rivers State’s funding could result in a disruption of vital services. “It’s scandalous that court orders, seemingly bought and paid for, could halt the funds essential to basic services in Rivers State,” the group asserted. The NDF emphasized that such a freeze threatens public health clinics, schools, and public safety resources—services crucial for Rivers State residents, particularly those in low-income and rural communities.
The group warned that the interruption of these funds could severely impact education, healthcare, and infrastructure in Rivers State. They argued that vulnerable populations, such as rural farmers and market traders, would bear the brunt of these judicial actions, with potentially devastating social and economic consequences.
Call for an Investigation by the Chief Justice
Urging Chief Justice Kekere-Ekun to intervene, the NDF demanded an investigation into the motivations behind recent rulings tied to Rivers State. The group cautioned that unchecked political influence within the judiciary could further destabilize the already volatile Niger Delta region, risking widespread unrest and undermining Nigeria’s broader security interests.
NDF Points to Escalating Violence and Tension in Rivers State
The NDF also drew attention to rising violence and property damage in Rivers State, which they attributed to Wike’s alleged manipulation of the judiciary. They referenced recent turmoil around local government elections, asserting that the legal conflicts and inconsistent rulings are aggravating the situation.
“Rivers State is still healing from recent violence and property damage tied to conflicting rulings around local government elections,” the NDF noted. They warned that the judiciary’s credibility and independence could be further eroded if these issues remain unaddressed, potentially leading to additional unrest.
Plea for Judicial Accountability and Independence
In its statement, the NDF called on Chief Justice Kekere-Ekun to uphold the independence of the judiciary, urging her to protect it from “the grip of political godfathers.” The group stressed that failure to act could further erode public confidence in the judiciary, sparking renewed political violence and economic instability in Rivers State.
“The people of Rivers deserve a judiciary that serves justice, not political whims,” the NDF statement asserted, appealing for a restoration of judicial integrity. They urged Justice Kekere-Ekun to protect the judiciary’s reputation and defend the rights of the common man against political interference.
Final Appeal to the Chief Justice
Concluding their plea, the NDF reminded the Chief Justice of the importance of the judiciary’s role as the “last bastion of hope” for Nigerians. “Madam Chief Justice, the soul of the Nigerian judiciary is at stake,” the NDF warned. “Stand with the people, protect our democracy, and let the Nigerian judiciary emerge unscathed from these tribulations.”
The NDF emphasized the need for decisive action to prevent further harm to the judiciary’s credibility and to ensure that Rivers State is not held hostage to political ambitions, advocating for an impartial and resilient judicial system that can withstand external pressures
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