The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has been captured in a viral video singing and celebrating the recent Supreme Court ruling on Rivers State. The ruling, which significantly impacts the state’s governance and financial operations, has sparked reactions from various political stakeholders.
Supreme Court’s Verdict on Rivers State
The Supreme Court ordered the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to halt all fund releases to the Rivers State government until a properly constituted House of Assembly is in place. Additionally, the court directed Martin Amaewhule to resume his role as Speaker and convene the Assembly immediately.
In its ruling, the apex court also barred the Accountant General of the Federation and other government agencies from disbursing funds to the state until full compliance with previous court rulings is ensured.
Delivering the judgment, Justice Emmanuel Akomaye, on behalf of a five-member panel, dismissed a cross-appeal filed by Governor Siminalayi Fubara, which challenged the legitimacy of the House of Assembly led by Speaker Amaewhule.
Wike’s Celebration and Online Reactions
Following the Supreme Court’s decision, Wike’s spokesperson, Lere Olayinka, posted a video on X of Wike celebrating the ruling alongside former Enugu State Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi. In the video, Wike could be heard singing, “I never knew He will honour me this way…”
Olayinka accompanied the post with a cryptic caption “Rivers Crisis: I dey hear with my left ear say the Opobo Judas of Rivers is not smiling at all. The Opobo Judas of Rivers was warned. Supreme Court has recognized Martins Amaewhule as the Speaker of Rivers State House of Assembly. DAZZOL.”
Governor Siminalayi Fubara hails from Opobo-Nkoro in Rivers State.
Conclusion: A Political Power Play Unfolds
The Supreme Court’s ruling has intensified the political battle in Rivers State, with Wike and his allies celebrating a perceived victory while Governor Fubara and his supporters face an uncertain path forward. The decision to freeze state funds adds another layer of complexity to the crisis, making the coming weeks crucial for the future of governance in the state.
