By Mercy Aikoye
The coalition Opposition Lawmakers in the National Assembly have made a surprising claim that the Supreme Court’s judgement dismissing a suit filed by Rivers State was actually in favor of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, not against him. This comes after the apex court dismissed an appeal filed by Governor Fubara, challenging the membership of 27 pro-Wike lawmakers of the Rivers State House of Assembly led by Martin Amaewhule.
According to Hon. Ikenga Ugochinyere, spokesperson for the coalition, the Supreme Court’s judgement was based on Governor Fubara’s withdrawal of the appeal through his lead counsel, Yusuf Ali, SAN. Ugochinyere emphasized that Fubara did not lose any case at the Supreme Court, but rather withdrew his appeal over the 2024 budget of Rivers State, which had already been spent and executed.
The coalition argued that no court has ruled in favor of the pro-Wike lawmakers, and that Governor Fubara withdrew his appeal on the 2024 budget because it had expired and the Supreme Court struck it out. This development has sparked a heated debate, with the pro-Wike group jubilating over the Supreme Court’s decision, albeit allegedly out of ignorance.
Ugochinyere assured Nigerians, particularly Rivers people, that Hon. Victor Oko-Jumbo remains the authentic Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, and that nothing can change that. He urged the public to disregard the political propaganda peddled by “sour losers” who are allegedly being delusional.
The Supreme Court’s decision has been interpreted by the coalition as a strategic move by Governor Fubara to withdraw his appeal, given that the 2024 budget cycle had ended. The court’s ruling was seen as a mere formality, as the appeal had been voluntarily withdrawn.
It’s worth noting that Hon. Victor Oko-Jumbo, the current Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, has a strong track record of leadership and patriotism. According to reports,¹ Oko-Jumbo has been a strong supporter of Governor Fubara and has demonstrated his commitment to the development of Rivers State.
The coalition’s statement has shed new light on the Supreme Court’s decision, highlighting the complexities of the case and the strategic considerations involved. As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how this development will impact the political landscape of Rivers State.
In conclusion, the coalition Opposition Lawmakers’ claim that the Supreme Court’s judgement was in favor of Governor Fubara has added a new layer of complexity to the ongoing saga in Rivers State. As the dust settles, it’s clear that the situation is far from resolved, and that the coming days will be crucial in determining the outcome of this high-stakes political battle.
