The African Centre for Justice and Human Rights (ACJHR) has praised Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, for his commitment to upholding the rule of law by implementing the recent Supreme Court judgment, despite reservations about the verdict.
In a statement by its coordinator, ACJHR described Fubara’s statewide broadcast on Sunday as a demonstration of mature leadership and statesmanship, noting that his decision to adhere to the apex court’s ruling sets an example for democratic governance in Nigeria.
Fubara’s Response to Supreme Court Ruling
Following a careful review of the Certified True Copy (CTC) of the judgment, which his legal team obtained on Friday, March 7, 2025, Governor Fubara moved swiftly to implement its directives. This included instructing the Heads of Local Government Administration to assume control of the 23 local government councils, pending the conduct of new elections by the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC). The outgoing local government chairmen were directed to handover power by Monday, March 3, 2025.
The Supreme Court’s ruling, delivered on Friday, had declared the October 5, 2024, local government elections in Rivers State invalid and further barred the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Accountant General of the Federation from releasing funds to the state government.
ACJHR: A Model for Leadership
The ACJHR commended Fubara for prioritizing the sanctity of the Constitution over personal or political interests. It emphasized that if more Nigerian leaders embraced Fubara’s approach, the country would be governed by law and justice, rather than personal ambitions and political maneuvering.
“Despite provocation and frustration by certain political forces, Governor Fubara has maintained a statesmanlike approach, showing respect for the Constitution and the Supreme Court. Unlike many who would have sought to undermine the ruling, he has committed to its implementation,” the statement read.
While acknowledging the Rivers State Government’s disagreement with the ruling, ACJHR noted that Fubara has demonstrated leadership by affirming his government’s commitment to constitutional order, due process, and the rule of law.
