Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate for the 2023 election, has urged concerned Nigerians to advocate for the annulment of a recent Federal High Court decision that has resulted in the seizure of statutory allocations belonging to the Rivers State Government.
The ruling, issued by Justice Joyce Abdulmalik earlier this week, declared the presentation of the 2024 budget by Governor Siminalayi Fubara to a four-member Rivers House of Assembly as unconstitutional. Justice Abdulmalik also condemned the ongoing receipt and utilization of monthly federal allocations by Governor Fubara since January, labeling such actions as a breach of constitutional law.
In a response posted on his official X account, Obi expressed his apprehension that this judgment could exacerbate the daily challenges faced by the citizens of Rivers State, potentially leading to tragic outcomes.
Obi emphasized the necessity for political leaders to prioritize the welfare of the marginalized and vulnerable populations. He stated, “Throughout my political career, I have consciously avoided engaging in personal attacks or disputes, concentrating instead on pressing issues that affect the populace, particularly the impoverished citizens of Nigeria.”
He acknowledged the heightened attention surrounding the crisis in Rivers State but maintained that he had refrained from commenting on state-specific issues until the recent court ruling, which halts allocations to the state and its consequent implications, warranted his involvement.
“This perplexing decision now compels every conscientious Nigerian to advocate for its swift reversal. We must reflect on the plight of pensioners struggling to make ends meet, alongside healthcare professionals, educators, civil servants, and ordinary citizens already grappling with significant hardships,” he remarked.
Obi questioned how much more these individuals could suffer, warning that the latest judicial development could further entrench their struggles, potentially leading to dire consequences, including premature deaths.
He concluded by stating, “As leaders, whether in the Executive, Legislative, or Judicial branches, our decisions and actions should be rooted in a commitment to enhancing the welfare of the less privileged and vulnerable members of our society.
In our pursuit of a brighter future for all, we must sincerely care about the impoverished and prioritize the welfare of every Nigerian. Our actions today should pave the way for a new Nigeria that is attainable.”
