The Labour Party’s Peter Obi has strongly criticized the ongoing political developments in Rivers State, describing them as an “aberration” and a violation of Nigeria’s constitutional order.
In a statement on Monday via X, Obi condemned the alleged disobedience of a Supreme Court ruling regarding the release of statutory allocations to an appointed sole administrator instead of a duly constituted legislative body.
Obi expressed concern over the decision to release state funds despite a standing order from the Supreme Court, which had barred the Central Bank of Nigeria and the Accountant-General of the Federation from disbursing these allocations until a legally recognized House of Assembly passes an Appropriation Act.
He stated that this decision raises serious moral questions about the situation in Rivers State.
The former presidential candidate warned that disregarding the judiciary’s authority sets a “dangerous precedent” and undermines the rule of law.
He urged institutions such as the CBN and AGF, which are mandated to uphold the law, not to be complicit in actions that defy judicial decisions.
Obi emphasized that a country cannot function where the rule of law is trampled upon, and judicial decisions are treated as mere suggestions.
Obi stressed that the issue extends beyond Rivers State, as it threatens the core of Nigeria’s democracy.
He called on leaders to respect the judiciary and uphold constitutional principles, warning that continued violations could jeopardize the nation’s democratic future.
Obi concluded by saying that if the country continues down this path, it will undermine the future of its democracy, and leaders must choose to do the right thing by respecting the law and upholding the principles that bind the nation together.
