The Centre for Credible Leadership and Citizens Awareness, a civil rights organization has strongly condemned the series of illegal activities and actions being perpetrated by Governor Sim Fubara in Rivers State.
According to a press release on Wednesday, 15th May 2024 signed by the Director General, Centre for Credible Leadership and Citizens Awareness. Dr Nwambu Gabriel said that the centre expressed its profound dismay at the recent ex-parte order issued by Hon Justice C.N Wali of the Rivers State High Court, purporting to set aside the Judgement of the Federal High Court and declare the seats of lawfully elected House of Assembly members vacant. An act clearly outside his jurisdiction.
The statement read, “By the unambiguous provisions of Section 272(3) of the Constitution of Federal Republic of Nigeria as amended only a Federal High Court has jurisdiction to hear cases that bother on vacation of the seats of a Member of the State Assembly, Governor or Deputy Governor.
“This act is a flagrant disregard for the rule of law and demonstrates a clear abuse of power. We call on the National Judicial Commission (NJC) to investigate this unruly and dishonourable act of Justice Wali and take proper disciplinary action to deter this obvious misadventure in the judiciary.Â
“Again, the purported invitation of a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Dagogo Iboroma, SAN for screening before an illegitimate House of Assembly is an affront to the integrity of our legal system and a contemptuous act towards court judgments. The Federal High Court, in Suit No FHC/ABJ/CS/1613/2023, clearly ruled that only the Amaewhule-led Assembly of 27 members can determine who their clerk is. We urge Dagogo Iboroma, SAN, and all leaders of the Bar to uphold the sanctity of the law and refrain from participating in actions that undermine the Constitution and the authority of the Courts.
“The disciplinary Committee of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) should investigate Oboronma, SAN and properly discipline his despicable action.
“Governor Fubara’s alleged plan to demolish the State House of Assembly Quarters is an assault on democracy and an attempt to silence opposition voices in Rivers state.
“The democratic process thrives on the existence of independent legislative bodies, and any attempt to undermine their autonomy should be condemned in the strongest possible terms.
“Lastly, we are deeply concerned about reports suggesting that Governor Fubara is spending Rivers State funds outside the realm of appropriation.
“A replication of corruption, abuse of power and due process. This act contravenes the principles of fiscal responsibility and accountability. Public funds should be managed prudently and by the law. We urge the appropriate authorities to investigate these allegations thoroughly and take appropriate actions to safeguard the interests of the citizens.
“As the Centre for Credible Leadership and Citizens Awareness, we firmly stand against these illegal activities and actions of Governor Sim Fubara in Rivers State. We call on all citizens, civil society organizations, and leaders of the Bar and the Bench to join us in defending the Rule of Law, upholding democratic tenets and principles, and safeguarding our constitutionally guaranteed rights.
“We will take all necessary steps to oppose these desecrations of our courts and the noble profession of law. Together, we can ensure that justice prevails and the rights of the people of Rivers State are protected.
