FCT, Abuja — The Federal High Court in Abuja has declared the presentation and approval of the Rivers State 2024 budget by a group of four legislators in the State as invalid.
In a judgment delivered by Justice James Omotoso, the court ordered Governor Siminalaye Fubara to present the budget to the legally constituted House of Assembly under Speaker Martin Amaewhule.
Justice Omotoso also ruled that the withholding of funds from the House of Assembly was unconstitutional, as he does not possess the authority to do so.
The court has issued a restraining order against Governor Fubara, preventing him from obstructing the House of Assembly under Amaewhule or interfering in its affairs.
The Governor’s decision to transfer the Clerk and Deputy Clerk has been deemed invalid and revoked.
The Inspector General of Police has been instructed to provide adequate security to the Speaker and legislators who support former Governor Nyesom Wike.
Justice Omotoso has ordered the Clerk and Deputy Clerk to resume their duties immediately and without obstruction.
The National Assembly has also been prohibited from taking control of the Rivers State House of Assembly or considering any requests from Governor Fubara.
Furthermore, Governor Fubara has been directed to release all funds belonging to the House of Assembly to Martin Amaewhule.
It is worth noting that all the disputed matters have been resolved in favor of Wike’s supporters.
