Rivers State Political Crisis: Supreme Court Adjourns Key Appeals to February
The Supreme Court has postponed hearing five significant appeals regarding the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State, scheduling the next session for February 10, 2025. A five-member panel, led by Justice Uwani Musa Aba-Aji, decided on the adjournment to allow both parties to file and serve necessary documents for the cases.
Court Orders Consolidation in Four Appeals as Legal Battle Intensifies
During the proceedings, the court granted a request from the appellants’ counsel, Chief Joseph Daudu (SAN), to consolidate four of the five appeals for joint hearing. The consolidated cases include appeals related to disputes between the Rivers State House of Assembly and various entities such as the Rivers State Government, the State Governor, the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC), and the Accountant General of the State.
Federal Court Rulings in Favor of Governor’s Budget Cause Further Tension
In a related development, a federal court ruling delivered by Justice James Omotosho on January 22, 2024, criticized the presentation of the 2024 state budget to a faction of the House of Assembly loyal to the governor. Omotosho ordered that the governor present the budget before the Martin Amaewhule-led faction, which aligns with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Mr. Nyesom Wike. This decision has sparked further disputes within the state’s political leadership.
Supreme Court Sets Date for Crucial Hearing on Local Government Election Dispute
The legal battle continues as the Supreme Court has set a hearing date for February 10, 2025, to address a withdrawal request in an appeal related to the conduct of the October 5, 2024, local government election in Rivers State. This case follows a judgment by Justice Peter Lifu of the Federal High Court, which had ruled against the election process, further complicating the already heated political scenario in the state.
