Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 election, has issued a strong statement denouncing the ongoing situation in Rivers State as a violation of Nigeria’s Constitution and democratic values.
He described the events unfolding in the state as an “aberration” that should alarm every conscientious citizen.
General Bola Tinubu had released Rivers State’s statutory allocations to an appointed Sole Administrator violating a Supreme Court ruling.
Obi criticized the decision to disburse statutory allocations to an appointed Sole Administrator, calling it a flagrant breach of a Supreme Court order. The court had previously prohibited the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Accountant-General of the Federation (AGF) from releasing such funds without a valid Appropriation Act passed by a legitimate House of Assembly. Obi argued that bypassing this ruling not only defies the law but also undermines the authority of Nigeria’s highest judicial body.
“This is a blatant disregard for the rule of law and the principles of democracy,” Obi stated. He expressed concern over the apparent complicity of institutions like the CBN and AGF, which are tasked with upholding legal standards, in this breach. “When those who have sworn to defend our constitution act against it, we cannot hope to build a thriving nation,” he added.
Obi emphasized that the crisis in Rivers State transcends local politics, posing a broader threat to Nigeria’s democratic foundation. He warned that a nation cannot survive where the rule of law is ignored, the separation of powers is eroded, and judicial rulings are treated as optional. “This sets a perilous precedent that jeopardizes the future of our democracy,” he cautioned.
Calling for accountability and adherence to legal principles, Obi urged Nigerians to reject these violations and work toward a better future. “A new Nigeria is POssible,” he concluded, reaffirming his vision for a nation grounded in justice and respect for the law.
