Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has committed to implementing the recent Supreme Court judgment regarding the state’s political crisis, while also ordering the immediate takeover of local government administration by Heads of Local Government Administration (HLGAs). This decision comes amidst warnings of potential renewed political tensions in the state.
Governor Fubara, in a statewide broadcast on Sunday, stated his administration’s commitment to upholding the rule of law, despite disagreeing with the Supreme Court’s verdict. He acknowledged the ruling, which is widely seen as a victory for Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike, and emphasized the need for calm.
Local Government Administration Takeover:
In a significant move, Governor Fubara directed the HLGAs to assume administrative control of the 23 local government councils, pending fresh elections by the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC). He also instructed outgoing local government chairmen to hand over power by Monday, March 3, 2025.
“Given the outlawing of caretaker arrangements in the local government system, I hereby direct the Heads of Local Government Administration to immediately take over the administration of the 23 local government councils,” Fubara stated.
Commitment to Supreme Court Ruling:
The governor assured that his administration would implement the Supreme Court’s judgment without reservation after receiving and analyzing the certified true copy, expected by March 7, 2025.
“Although we disagree with the judgments, we are bound to obey the orders made therein as a law-abiding government,” he reiterated.
Warnings of Potential Turmoil and Calls for Calm:
Fubara cautioned that the state might face “trying times” following the ruling, but urged residents to remain calm and carry on with their daily activities.
“Although our dear state seems to be back in trying times, I urge everyone to remain calm and peacefully go about with their legitimate daily activities,” he said.
Reactions and Condemnations:
The Rivers State Elders Council, led by Chief Ferdinand Alabraba, commended the Supreme Court’s “well-rounded pronouncements” and urged Fubara and the state lawmakers to fulfill their constitutional responsibilities.
However, former APC Deputy National Publicity Secretary, Timi Frank, condemned the Supreme Court verdict, labeling it a “criminal usurpation” of funds and alleging judicial bias. He warned of potential unrest, blaming President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Chief Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun.
