ACJHR Commends Governor Fubara For Upholding Supreme Court Ruling.
The African Centre for Justice and Human Rights (ACJHR) has praised Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, for his statesmanlike approach in accepting and implementing the recent Supreme Court judgment after carefully reviewing its Certified True Copy (CTC).
In a statement issued by its coordinator, the ACJHR applauded the governor’s impressive state broadcast on Sunday, which demonstrated his commitment to the rule of law and democratic principles. The centre noted that by allowing the judgment of the apex court to prevail, Governor Fubara has distinguished himself as the kind of leader Nigeria needs at this stage of its democratic journey.
The ACJHR highlighted that once the governor’s legal team obtains the CTC by Friday, 7 March 2025, further steps will be taken in the interest of the people of Rivers State and to uphold the sanctity of the Constitution to which he has sworn to protect.
“If all Nigerian leaders had the same disposition as Fubara, the country would be a better place where the law is supreme over personal ambition, idiosyncrasies, or egocentrism,” the statement read.
The centre commended the governor’s calm and mature response despite provocations, acknowledging that he has earned the respect of all men of conscience and goodwill.
Governor Fubara’s Swift Action
Even before obtaining the CTC, Governor Fubara has taken proactive steps to implement the judgment. He has directed the Heads of Local Government Administration to immediately take over the administration of the 23 local government councils pending fresh elections by the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission.
Additionally, he instructed outgoing local government chairmen to formally hand over power to the Heads of Local Government Administration by Monday, 3 March 2025.
The Supreme Court’s ruling had earlier declared the local government election held on 5 October 2024 invalid and barred the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), the Accountant General of the Federation, and other agencies from releasing funds to the Rivers State Government.
Despite disagreeing with the ruling, Governor Fubara has pledged to respect and implement the court’s decision, reaffirming that his administration has always conducted state affairs within the framework of the Constitution, due process, and the rule of law.
With this approach, Governor Fubara has reinforced his commitment to democracy and governance guided by legality, setting an example for other leaders across the country.
