In response to the recent Federal High Court ruling directing the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to halt federal funds to Rivers State, House of Representatives member Ikenga Ugochinyere has voiced strong objections and appealed for intervention from the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN). In a video shared by AIT, Ugochinyere contended that the federal government lacks the authority to seize a state government’s resources, asserting that the judgment undermines federalism.
Ugochinyere emphasized that the ruling lacks enforceability and that an appeal has already been filed. He cautioned Rivers State officials, including former governor Nyesom Wike, against proceeding on the basis of the decision. “This judgment is not enforceable; it will not stand; it has already been appealed,” he declared, directly addressing Wike and his associates. Ugochinyere stressed that until the Supreme Court issues a final ruling on the matter, specifically regarding the status of lawmakers who decamped to new political parties, the current judgment should hold no weight.
The federal lawmaker commended the Rivers State government, particularly Governor Siminalayi Fubara, for maintaining calm amidst the legal controversy. He advised the governor to proceed with the state’s budget planning, presenting the 2025 budget to the House of Assembly under the leadership of Speaker Martin Amaewhule. “I urge the governor to continue showing the maturity you’re displaying,” Ugochinyere said. “Present your 2025 budget before the House as constituted until the Supreme Court decides on the decampment issue.”
Ugochinyere also pointed out that a standing order exists which affirms the legitimacy of the votes and proceedings led by Speaker Amaewhule, recognizing the declaration of 26 Assembly seats as vacant due to decampment. According to Ugochinyere, this order has not been dismissed by any court and remains valid, allowing the Assembly to operate as constituted.
With the appeal process now initiated, the final outcome regarding Rivers State’s federal funding remains uncertain. Ugochinyere’s statements highlight the complex legal and political dynamics surrounding federal and state powers in Nigeria and underscore the role of the judiciary in resolving high-stakes disputes that have significant implications for governance.