Wike
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has ridiculed former Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar and the Chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum, Bala Mohammed, over their past support for Rivers State Governor Sim Fubara.
Wike questioned whether Atiku and Mohammed would continue to praise Fubara after the Supreme Court’s recent ruling against the Rivers State government.
The Supreme Court, in its judgment, directed the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Accountant General of the Federation to halt allocations to the Rivers State government until Fubara ceases all unconstitutional actions. The court ruled that funds would only be released when a lawful Appropriation Law is passed under the Martin Amaewhule-led Speakership. Additionally, the court ordered the 27 lawmakers of the Rivers State House of Assembly to resume their legislative functions immediately.
Reacting to the judgment during a press briefing in Abuja, Wike emphasized that impunity in Rivers State must end.
“This is what we see in this country—when you speak the truth, people resort to blackmail,” Wike said. “For me, this is a victory for the people of Rivers and for Nigeria. The Supreme Court has affirmed that lawlessness cannot continue.”
He criticized Fubara for disregarding the constitution, particularly regarding local government matters. “A governor, who swore to uphold the constitution, called a court judgment corrupt. But today, the Supreme Court has made it clear—no budget, no funds. The CBN and Accountant General cannot release money without a properly passed budget,” Wike added.
He further condemned Fubara’s refusal to comply with court orders, especially in conducting local government elections. “You ignored the court’s directive to obtain the voters’ register from INEC. You defied due process, and yet, Nigerians applauded you. Atiku and Bala Mohammed hailed your actions—will they still do so now?”
Wike concluded by stating that the Supreme Court’s decision was crucial in protecting democracy. “Had this been allowed to stand, tomorrow, a single legislator could declare himself an assembly, and no one would stop him. Enough is enough.”
