By Chibuike Nwabuko
ABUJA (PRECISE POST) – In a scathing critique of current events in Rivers State, the Labour Party presidential candidate in the February 25, 2023 general election, Peter Obi has condemned the actions taking place in the region, describing them as an “aberration” and a direct challenge to Nigeria’s Constitution.
Obi emphasized that what is unfolding in the state must be denounced by all who value the rule of law and democracy.
The two-term Governor of Anambra State took to his X account to disclose this against the backdrop of the news making rounds that the seized Rivers state statutory allocation has been released to the Sole Administrator.
Precise Post recalls that the focal point of the controversy lies in the recent decision to release statutory allocations to a Sole Administrator, despite a clear directive from the Supreme Court.
Recall that the Supreme Court had ordered that the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Accountant-General of the Federation (AGF) withhold such funds until a properly constituted House of Assembly passes a valid Appropriation Act. The move, according to the Peter Obi, is a blatant violation of this ruling and a severe disregard for the authority of the nation’s highest judicial body.
“The decision to release these funds, contrary to the Supreme Court’s order, is not only unlawful but a direct affront to the rule of law,” the advocate stated. “This raises grave concerns about the moral direction of Rivers State and the broader implications for the country’s democracy.”
By flouting the judgment, the institutions responsible — including the CBN and AGF — are, in effect, setting a dangerous precedent that undermines the integrity of the judicial system. Peter Obi further pointed out that those in positions of power, who have sworn to uphold the Constitution, should not be complicit in such actions.
The statement emphasized that this issue transcends Rivers State, representing a broader threat to the country’s democratic fabric. “If the rule of law is trampled upon and judicial decisions are ignored, the future of our democracy is at risk,” the advocate warned.
Calling for action to protect Nigeria’s constitutional integrity, Obi concluded with a call for a new, law-abiding Nigeria, where the principles of democracy and justice are upheld.
