Rivers Crises: CACOL calls on warring factions to embrace peace
By JABIRU HASSAN, Kano
The Centre for Anti-Corruption and Open Leadership (CACOL) has called for an immediate end to hostilities among warring factions in Rivers State, following a Federal High Court ruling that prohibits the Central Bank of Nigeria from disbursing further monthly allocations to the state government.
This ruling stems from alleged constitutional violations by Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
In a statement issued by Tola Oresanwo, CACOL’s Director of Administration and Programmes, on behalf of Chairman Debo Adeniran, the organization expressed concern over the implications of the ongoing power struggle.
“Justice Joyce Abdulmalik found that Governor Fubara’s presentation of the 2024 budget to a four-member House of Assembly breached constitutional protocol,” the statement noted.
The ruling identified that Rivers State has operated under an “illegitimate” budget since January, calling this a “constitutional aberration.”
CACOL emphasized that none of the factions involved are adhering to democratic principles. “The Governor cannot determine the quorum in the Assembly; he must present the budget to at least one quarter of the total members,” Oresanwo stated.
The organization criticized the Governor for presenting the budget under questionable circumstances and called for evidence regarding claims of defection among Assembly members.
The statement highlighted the potential fallout from the court’s decision, warning of severe consequences for the state’s welfare.
“Halting allocations can lead to a financial crisis, impacting public services, salaries, and infrastructure projects,” it warned. Residents may face diminished access to essential services such as healthcare and education.
CACOL also addressed the political ramifications, suggesting that the ruling could heighten tensions in the region and provoke public outcry for accountability from the state government.
“The broader economy of Rivers State could suffer, particularly if investors perceive the state as unstable,” the statement concluded.
In light of these developments, CACOL urged all parties to seek peaceful resolution and prioritize the welfare of the citizens over political ambitions.
