Dr. Chidi Lloyd, the former Chairman of Emohua Local Government Area in Rivers State, has firmly stated that the camp of Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, will not allow Governor Siminalayi Fubara to govern the state in violation of the constitution.
This statement comes after the Supreme Court ruled on Friday, ordering the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to immediately stop the release of funds to the Rivers State government until a proper House of Assembly is constituted. The court also directed Martin Amaewhule to resume his duties and reconvene the Assembly with all elected members present.
Wike, who is the former Governor of Rivers State, expressed jubilation over the ruling, calling it unprecedented for just three individuals to make laws for the entire state. He also declared that the Supreme Court’s decision marked the end of impunity in Rivers State. The court addressed five appeals related to the ongoing dispute within the State Assembly.
Speaking on Channels Television on Friday, Chidi Lloyd, a close ally of the FCT minister, commented that the FCT minister is not directly involved in the political situation. However, he emphasized that good governance should not mean disregarding the rule of law. “Governor Fubara must govern according to the dictates of the constitution,” Lloyd said. He referenced a point made by one of the judges, who noted that no individual can create laws for themselves and fail to obey them.
Lloyd continued to criticize the Governor’s actions, particularly his attempts to demolish the Assembly building, suggesting that the legislature in Rivers State must be allowed to function independently. He stressed the importance of respecting court orders and reminded all involved that this ruling came from the Supreme Court of Nigeria.
As tensions remain high in the state, Lloyd urged that peace be prioritized, and that all parties involved must adhere to constitutional guidelines and judicial rulings.