Judiciary
THE Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has issued a strong warning to the Nigerian judiciary, urging it to resist being used as an instrument to demolish democracy and constitutionalism in Rivers State. The association condemned Justice Joyce Abdulmalik’s Federal High Court ruling, which reportedly barred the Federal Government from releasing statutory allocations to Rivers State. HURIWA described the ruling as a miscarriage of justice and an alleged judicial overreach that threatens to destabilize the governance of Rivers State.
Justice Abdulmalik’s judgment restrains the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and other financial institutions from releasing funds to the Rivers State Government until the 2024 budget is presented and passed by the state’s House of Assembly. This action follows allegations that Governor Siminalayi Fubara presented the state budget to only four legislators, violating constitutional provisions for legislative processes.
HURIWA described the judgment as “an attempted coup against the people of Rivers State,” emphasizing that it is both unjust and dangerous for the judgment to remain enforceable. The association called for the immediate reversal of the ruling, even though the matter is before the Court of Appeal, warning that any delay would further undermine democracy and constitutional governance in Nigeria.
“The court system in Nigeria should be put on notice that Nigerians are watching this particular judgment with keen interest. The decision by Justice Abdulmalik is not only a miscarriage of justice but also a betrayal of the people of Rivers State, who rely on these allocations to sustain governance and public services,” HURIWA stated.
The association commended Governor Fubara for his resilience despite what it described as sinister plots to destabilize his administration. It noted that the governor has remained focused on serving the people of Rivers State despite political pressures and judicial challenges. HURIWA urged the judiciary to steer clear of Rivers State’s internal politics, highlighting concerns over perceived judicial interference influenced by external forces.
In its statement, HURIWA referenced the ongoing political tension between Governor Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, who allegedly played a significant role in Fubara’s emergence as governor but has since sought to influence his administration. The association lamented that this political rivalry has now extended into the judiciary, with powerful interests allegedly attempting to undermine Fubara’s leadership.
“If a critical opinion poll is conducted in Nigeria today on the court’s decision regarding Rivers State, nearly 95 out of 100 people would likely conclude that the judiciary has been compromised by powerful forces seeking to destabilize the state government. This perception is dangerous and undermines public trust in the judiciary,” the statement read.
HURIWA also expressed concerns over the Federal Government’s alleged donation of houses to judges in Abuja, describing it as an illegal act and an attempt to compromise the judiciary. It called on judges to uphold their independence and resist any inducement or interference from the executive arm of government.
“Judicial corruption spells disaster and paves the way for anarchy and retrogression. Judges must remain incorruptible and above suspicion. If Rivers State, which reportedly contributes the largest share to Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) through crude oil production, is denied its statutory allocation due to political rivalry, the repercussions will be dire.
“Statistical data supports the claim that Rivers State is Nigeria’s highest producer of crude oil, contributing approximately 30% of the nation’s crude oil production. According to the Nigerian Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI), Rivers State consistently ranks as a top contributor to Nigeria’s oil revenue. This significant economic contribution underscores the importance of ensuring that the state receives its rightful statutory allocations,” HURIWA warned.
HURIWA reiterated that denying Rivers State its statutory funds would not only cripple governance in the state but also set a dangerous precedent for other states. The association called on the judiciary to respect constitutional provisions that guarantee states’ financial autonomy and to avoid being used as tools for political vendettas.
“Political leaders must prioritize the collective good over personal ambitions. The judiciary must also remain independent and impartial, safeguarding democracy and the rule of law. If Rivers State is destabilized because of the selfish ambitions of a few, it will not only harm the state but also Nigeria’s democratic foundations,” HURIWA stated.
The association called on Nigerians to remain vigilant and proactive in holding leaders accountable for their actions. It urged civil society groups and human rights organizations to monitor judicial proceedings and challenge any evidence of bias or interference. HURIWA also appealed to Chief Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun to take decisive steps to restore public confidence in the judiciary, ensuring that it remains a beacon of integrity and justice.
As Rivers State battles political and judicial challenges, HURIWA emphasized the need for collective efforts to protect democracy and constitutionalism. It called for an immediate review of Justice Abdulmalik’s ruling to avert a crisis that could have far-reaching consequences for governance and public trust in the judiciary.
2nd December, 2024.
C.E.
Tags: HURIWA
