The Rivers State government said the recent Federal High Court ruling in Abuja, which ordered the cessation of local government allocations, was anticipated due to various developments during the court process.
Commissioner for Information, Joe Johnson, highlighted signs that led to the prediction, noting, “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,” he stated.
Johnson assured the public that the state had appealed the decision, expressing confidence that the Court of Appeal would overturn the ruling.
Meanwhile, the Movement for the Survival of the Ogoni People (MOSOP) condemned the judgment, warning of the severe social impact on Rivers State citizens. MOSOP President, Fegalo Nsuke, called the ruling “unjust and genocidal,” emphasizing that cutting off a community’s economic lifeline is harmful and potentially volatile, as it pushes people to a breaking point.
Nsuke added that Rivers State’s economic and political importance to Nigeria’s stability should not be undermined, advocating for respect of ongoing appellate procedures. “Suppressing Rivers State could have far-reaching consequences on the stability of Nigeria,” Nsuke stated, urging restraint from enforcement while appeals remain pending.
Additionally, Chief Joseph Ambakaderimom, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Niger Delta oil and gas-producing communities, supported a lawful approach, remarking that only a superior court can alter the judgment.
He advised patience, trusting the Rivers State Government to follow proper legal channels.