Court stops River state Allocation under President Tinubu

The Rivers State government has responded to a recent Federal High Court ruling in Abuja that ordered the cessation of local government allocations, an outcome anticipated due to various indicators during the court proceedings. Joe Johnson, the Commissioner for Information, pointed out several signs that foreshadowed the ruling, stating, “When the trial judge refused to add the 23 council chairmen as parties, declined the state’s request to change its lawyer, and overruled our jurisdiction objection, it was evident.” 

Johnson assured the public that the state has appealed the decision, expressing confidence that the Court of Appeal would reverse the ruling.

In the wake of the judgment, the Movement for the Survival of the Ogoni People (MOSOP) condemned the ruling, warning of its severe social repercussions for Rivers State citizens. MOSOP President Fegalo Nsuke described the judgment as “unjust and genocidal,” stressing that cutting off a community’s economic lifeline is not only harmful but also poses a risk of social unrest. Nsuke further emphasized the vital economic and political role of Rivers State in Nigeria's stability and called for respect for the ongoing appellate procedures.

Chief Joseph Ambakaderimom, Chairman of the Board of Trustees for Niger Delta oil and gas-producing communities, echoed the call for a lawful approach, stating that only a superior court can change the judgment, and advised patience while the Rivers State Government navigates the legal process.