A Federal High Court in Abuja, presided over by Justice Joyce Abdulmalik, has dismissed a request from the Rivers State Government to stay proceedings in a case seeking to halt the allocation of funds to all local government areas within Rivers State.
Background of the Case
The Rivers State House of Assembly, led by Hon. Martin Amaewhule, filed a suit against the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), urging the court to suspend fund allocations to local governments in Rivers State. The Rivers State Government objected to the hearing of the case, arguing through its counsel, Joseph Daudu, for a stay of proceedings. However, Justice Abdulmalik dismissed the request, labeling it “unmeritorious, mischievous, and frivolous,” and decided to proceed with the hearing.
Rivers State Government Appeals the Decision
Disagreeing with the Federal High Court’s judgment, the Rivers State Government has appealed to the Court of Appeal, seeking intervention in the matter. The state has also filed a motion with the Federal High Court, requesting a stay of proceedings until the appeal is resolved.
Despite the ongoing appeal, the Federal High Court has affirmed its decision to continue with the hearing of the suit.
