By Our Reporter
The Rivers State Government has announced that it is awaiting a detailed briefing on the Supreme Court’s recent judgment concerning state allocation and local government administration.
In a statement released on Friday, the Commissioner for Information, Joe Johnson, explained that the government will conduct a thorough review once it receives comprehensive information on the ruling. It will then decide on the best course of action in the interest of the state and its residents.
Johnson urged the people of Rivers State to remain calm, law-abiding, and continue their daily activities while the government seeks further clarification on the judgment.
He clarified that the issue of defection involving 27 lawmakers was not part of the Supreme Court’s case, as it is still pending before the Federal High Court in Port Harcourt.
“We are currently waiting for a detailed briefing on the judgment’s implications. Once we have the necessary information, we will carefully evaluate the situation and determine the best steps for the people of Rivers State,” said Johnson.
He emphasized that, in light of the ruling, Martin Amaewhule and the 26 other lawmakers are still recognized as legislators by the Justices, as the defection issue was not part of the case before the Supreme Court.
“Since the defection matter was not addressed by the Justices, Amaewhule and the 26 others are still considered lawmakers until that issue is raised before the court,” Johnson added.
The commissioner reaffirmed the Rivers State Government’s commitment to upholding the rule of law and safeguarding the state’s interests in all legal matters.
In its ruling on Friday, the Supreme Court also ordered a freeze on fund disbursements to the Rivers State Government by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), the Accountant General of the Federation, and other agencies until the state addresses what the court deemed as flagrant disobedience to court orders.