Fubara Can't Operate Outside The Law Of the Land, Says Lloyd, Wike's Supporter
Former chairman of Emohua Local Government Area in Rivers State and a strong supporter of the Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, Dr. Chidi Lloyd, has made it clear that Governor Siminalayi Fubara will not be allowed to govern Rivers State outside the boundaries of the law.
The statement follows a Supreme Court ruling that ordered the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to stop releasing funds to the Rivers State government until a properly constituted House of Assembly is in place.
The ruling also directed Martin Amaewhule, along with other elected lawmakers, to resume legislative duties immediately.
Reacting to this, Wike expressed his satisfaction with the verdict, emphasizing that it was unacceptable for just three people to assume the role of the entire state assembly and make laws on behalf of the people. He welcomed the court’s decision, stating that it had put an end to what he described as impunity in the state.
The Supreme Court gave its ruling after reviewing five different appeals related to the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State.
During an interview on Channels Television, Dr. Lloyd addressed the situation, firmly stating that those expecting Wike’s camp to simply let Fubara govern however he pleased were mistaken.
He said: “The minister of the FCT is not a party to all of these things. But you talked about good governance, that we should allow Fubara to govern, no."
He stressed that the governor must operate strictly within the confines of the law.
Lloyd further pointed out that during the court proceedings, one of the judges made it clear to Fubara that laws cannot be created and ignored at will.
He recalled, “as one of the judges told him today, you cannot set a law for yourself and not obey them and he made reference to where other arms of government will not allow the other arms to breathe."
Emphasising the importance of an active legislative body in the state, Lloyd insisted that the Rivers State House of Assembly must function as it should. “So the legislature in Rivers State should breathe,” he added.
He also accused the governor of using forceful measures against the assembly members, stating that Fubara had taken drastic steps against them. He explained,
“The governor, with due respect, brazenly move into where the Assembly people live with a view to demolishing it but we’re not quick to look…”
However, he quickly noted that, despite the tension, efforts were being made to restore peace.
In his final remarks, Lloyd warned those who have a habit of disobeying court rulings to be mindful of the fact that the Supreme Court's decisions are final.
He stated, “Anyway…we’re now toeing the side of peace …those who have the penchant of not obeying court orders should please know that this is Supreme Court of Nigeria.”
With tensions still high in Rivers State, the Supreme Court’s ruling has reshaped the ongoing political struggle, making it clear that governance must align with constitutional provisions.
