The Rivers State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC), under the leadership of reinstated Chairman Emeka Beke, has strongly condemned a lawsuit filed by party chieftain Tony Okocha that seeks to halt the allocation of funds to local government councils.
In a press release, APC spokesperson Darlington Nwauju emphasized that Okocha and his caretaker committee had been dismissed but continued to act as if they were still in power, defying a valid court ruling.
Nwauju criticized Okocha for allegedly undermining the local councils by attempting to block their access to funds. His remarks followed a press briefing where Okocha acknowledged his court actions against local government funding, citing a flawed process.
The statement read, “We have observed recent events in our state with concern, particularly regarding the local government system. It has become clear that inaction will only further erode the democratic values we hold dear.”
Nwauju expressed shock at Okocha’s disregard for a legitimate court ruling that dismissed him and his faction. He stated, “It is disheartening that Okocha and his associates, who openly reject the High Court’s decision which nullified their appointments, are now seeking a ruling from a court of equal jurisdiction in Abuja to block funds to local governments, thereby jeopardizing the livelihoods of countless Rivers citizens, especially local council employees.”
He continued, “The judiciary must not be manipulated by desperate politicians. A competent court in Port Harcourt has already ruled against the faction Okocha claims to represent (refer to Suit No. PHC/3592/CS/2023).”
The APC reaffirmed its belief that electoral bodies should operate independently and resist outside interference, pointing to the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission’s (RSIEC) successful local government elections held on October 5, 2024.
Citing the 2010 Electoral Act, Nwauju noted that courts are prohibited from obstructing the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in its electoral responsibilities. He argued that any attempt to disrupt ongoing electoral processes undermines democratic principles.
Referencing historical precedents, he compared the current situation to when President Olusegun Obasanjo attempted to seize Lagos State funds in 2004 and how the state successfully challenged that action. He also mentioned a Supreme Court ruling affirming the autonomy of local governments to receive funding without federal oversight, as outlined in Section 162(7) of the Constitution.
The APC’s statement also reminded the public of the troubling legislative actions taken in 2018 that facilitated a “civilian dictatorship” in Rivers State, asserting that the same individuals now seek to destabilize the local government system through legal manoeuvres led by Okocha.
Nwauju concluded by urging those involved in the legal challenges to focus on meaningful electoral reforms, including implementing the recommendations of the Justice Muhammad Uwais Panel, rather than pursuing actions that threaten the democratic framework and well-being of Rivers residents.
