Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, recently expressed a measured response to a Federal High Court decision that instructed the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to halt the release of state allocations.
The ruling, handed down by Justice Joyce Abdulmalik in Abuja, determined that the continuous disbursement of these allocations was a breach of the 1999 Constitution, citing concerns over the state budget’s presentation before a four-member House of Assembly in Rivers State.
The governor, in response, conveyed a sense of indifference to the court’s decision, instead focusing on the broader implications of the intervention of President Bola Tinubu in the situation.Governor Fubara explained that his adherence to Tinubu’s intervention, aimed at maintaining peace in Rivers State, may have inadvertently empowered his political opponents.
He expressed no regret over his decision to pursue peace, even while recognizing that this approach provided his adversaries with an opening to strengthen their influence. Fubara elaborated that his willingness to adhere to higher-level intervention was driven by a commitment to stability in Rivers State, rather than personal or political gain.
He admitted that the intervention, while well-intentioned, had complex ramifications for his administration, as some opposition forces interpreted it as a sign of vulnerability or compromise.
The governor shared these reflections during a special thanksgiving service dedicated to celebrating his administration’s resilience amid recent political upheaval.
The event occurred just days after an arson attack on the Rivers State House of Assembly on October 29, 2023.
During the service, Fubara reiterated his commitment to Rivers people, pledging to prioritize the state’s development and well-being despite the ongoing challenges.
He announced that payments to contractors and civil servants would resume immediately, with salary payments for workers scheduled to commence the following day.
Additionally, the governor assured that allocations to the 23 council chairmen had been processed under the Joint Accounts Allocation Committee (JAAC) procedures, underscoring his administration’s commitment to supporting local governance structures.
In his speech, Governor Fubara also took the opportunity to reflect on his administration’s accomplishments, noting that despite skepticism and attempts to destabilize his leadership, he had successfully guided Rivers State through a series of complex political challenges.
Over the past year, Fubara’s administration has managed to maintain stability, conduct local government elections, and operate with a full cabinet.
These achievements, he noted, counter criticisms regarding the administration’s capacity to deliver on its promises.
The governor highlighted that projects throughout the state remain ongoing, reinforcing his administration’s dedication to infrastructural development and the welfare of Rivers State citizens.Governor Fubara cited recent accolades that have positioned Rivers State as a leader in financial accountability and transparency, a testament, he argued, to his administration’s commitment to ethical governance.
These accomplishments, he suggested, serve as evidence of his administration’s resilience and focus amid efforts to undermine its authority.Reflecting on the events of October 30, 2023, Fubara recounted what he characterized as an assassination attempt, which he attributed to political adversaries.
The incident occurred after the governor withdrew legal action against the Martin Amaewhule group, a decision he made in response to an intervention from President Tinubu.
While Fubara was clear that he did not regret his decision to pursue peace, he acknowledged that some of his opponents might have interpreted this move as a sign of weakness, emboldening them to act more aggressively against his administration.
In his address, Fubara encouraged his supporters to stay resilient, emphasizing that challenges, no matter how daunting, could be overcome.
He urged them to view recent events not as setbacks but as tests of the administration’s resolve and capacity to navigate complex political terrain.
The governor assured his supporters that Rivers State would remain strong and that his administration was fully committed to safeguarding the state’s interests.
As Rivers State moves forward, Governor Fubara’s approach highlights his dedication to peace, stability, and transparency, even in the face of political adversaries and legal obstacles. His focus remains on ensuring the welfare of Rivers people, pushing forward with ongoing projects, and fostering resilience in the state’s governance structures.
The recent court ruling and political tensions serve as reminders of the challenges of governance, but Fubara’s response underscores his commitment to leading with integrity and accountability, striving to fulfill his vision for a prosperous and stable Rivers State.
