Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State says he is still awaiting the details of the Supreme Court judgment which on Friday nullified the local government election conducted by his administration in 2024.
The judgment also restored the 27 state lawmakers barred by the state government denied access to the state house of assembly crisis.
“At this time, we are awaiting a detailed briefing on the implications of the judgment.
“We will carefully evaluate the situation and determine the next steps to take in the best interest of Rivers State and its people.
Warisenibo Joe Johnson, the state Commissioner for Information & Communications said in a statement on behalf of the Rivers State government.
Full text of the statement :
“PRESS RELEASE
SUPREME COURT JUDGMENT ON RIVERS STATE FUNDS AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT ADMINISTRATION
“We have taken note of reports in the media regarding the recent judgment of the Supreme Court concerning the funds of Rivers State and the administration of local governments in the state.
“At this time, we are awaiting a detailed briefing on the implications of the judgment.
“We will carefully evaluate the situation and determine the next steps to take in the best interest of Rivers State and its people.
“Though we have not gotten the details of the judgment from our legal team, we enjoin Rivers people to remain calm, law abiding and go about our legitimate businesses as we seek clarity on the judgment.
“We believe that the determination of the main issue of defection of the 27 lawmakers is a matter not before the Supreme Court as it is pending at the Federal High Court in Port Harcourt.
“Since the issue of defection wasn’t on the table before the learned Justices, in their eyes, Amaewhule and the 26 others are still operating as lawmakers until that matter of defection comes before them.
“We assure you that we remain committed to upholding our mandate to protect the best interest and the rule of law in all matters affecting our dear State.
Signed
“Warisenibo Joe Johnson
Hon. Commissioner for Information & Communications
February 28, 2025.”
(vitalnewsngr.com)
