A Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered the Central Bank of Nigeria to halt monthly financial allocations to the Rivers State Government. Justice Joyce Abdulmalik ruled that Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s presentation of the 2024 budget to a reduced Rivers House of Assembly violated constitutional provisions.
The judge deemed Governor Fubara’s receipt and disbursement of allocations since January as “a constitutional somersault” and barred further access to federal funds. Justice Abdulmalik held that the governor’s actions breached the 1999 Constitution, which he swore to uphold.
Consequently, the court restrained the following institutions from releasing funds to Governor Fubara:
- Central Bank of Nigeria
- Accountant General of the Federation
- Zenith Bank
- Access Bank
These institutions are prohibited from allowing Mr. Fubara to access money from the Consolidated Revenue and Federation Account.
This ruling comes amidst ongoing controversy surrounding the Rivers State Government’s legitimacy and financial management. The development is expected to have significant implications for the state’s operations and governance.
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