The political crisis in Rivers State has deepened, with Dr. Chidi Lloyd, a staunch associate of the Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, insisting that Governor Siminalayi Fubara must strictly adhere to constitutional principles in running the state.
His remarks come in the wake of a Supreme Court ruling that carries major implications for governance in the state.
On Friday, the Supreme Court directed the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to suspend financial disbursements to the Rivers State government until a duly constituted House of Assembly is restored.
Additionally, the court ruled that Speaker Martin Amaewhule must reconvene the legislative body with all elected lawmakers, emphasizing the necessity of a functional legislature for proper governance.
Reacting to the ruling, Wike welcomed the decision, stressing that it reaffirmed the importance of a legitimate legislative process.
He condemned the attempt by a minority group to govern the state’s affairs without constitutional backing, commending the judiciary for reinforcing the rule of law.
During an interview on Channels Television, Lloyd echoed similar sentiments, maintaining that Governor Fubara must operate within constitutional boundaries.
“The minister of the FCT is not a party to all of these things. But you talked about good governance, that we should allow Fubara to govern, no.”
“Fubara must govern according to the dictate of the constitution. As one of the judges told him today, you cannot set a law for yourself and not obey them and he made reference to where other arms of government will not allow the other arms to breathe.”
He argued that the Assembly must be allowed to function independently, referencing previous efforts to undermine its authority.
“The governor, with due respect, brazenly move into where the Assembly people live with a view to demolishing it but we’re not quick to look… anyway…we’re now toeing the side of peace …those who have the penchant of not obeying court orders should please know that this is Supreme Court of Nigeria.”
