Supreme Court Affirms Amaewhule as Rivers Speaker

Rivers – The Supreme Court of Nigeria has ruled that the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF) must cease disbursing funds to the Rivers State Government until a legally recognized House of Assembly, led by Martins Amaewhule, passes a valid Appropriation Act.

Delivering the unanimous judgment on Friday, a five-member panel of the apex court declared that Amaewhule and the 26 lawmakers accused of defection must resume their legislative duties without obstruction. The ruling emphasized that all members of the Rivers State House of Assembly must be granted unrestricted access to carry out their legislative functions.

Justice Emmanuel Agim, who delivered the lead judgment, criticized Governor Siminalayi Fubara for allegedly undermining the state government by demolishing the Assembly complex out of fear of impeachment. The court held that such actions were an abuse of power and a direct violation of democratic principles.

The Supreme Court also overturned a prior ruling by the Court of Appeal, which had stated that the Federal High Court lacked jurisdiction over cases concerning Rivers State funds. By setting aside this judgment, the apex court reaffirmed that the lower court had the authority to deliberate on financial matters affecting the state.

In addition to halting the state’s access to funds, the court imposed a ₦50 million cost against Governor Fubara and the Rivers State Government, ordering the amount to be paid to the Rivers State House of Assembly and its Speaker, Martins Amaewhule.

This ruling marks a significant escalation in the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State, intensifying the power struggle between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike. It also raises concerns about the governance and financial stability of the state, as the Supreme Court’s decision effectively freezes the government’s ability to access funds until the legislative crisis is resolved.

By Damilola Adeleke| March 1, 2025

Damilola Adeleke

Adeleke Damilola (ACTION) is a versatile content writer with expertise in news writing and a seasoned media professional and broadcast specialist. Currently serving as News Editor for DNews Info, Damilola is also the CEO of the ACTION brand, committed to shaping lives and establishing a legacy of excellence for present and future generations.