FG Clarifies Rivers State Will Receive Federal Allocations Despite Legal Dispute

The Federal Government confirmed on Friday that Rivers State will continue to receive federal allocations despite an ongoing legal battle.

Addressing concerns raised by reports suggesting otherwise, Bawa Mokwa, the Director of Press and Public Relations at the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation (OAGF), clarified that the government remains committed to adhering to court orders.

He explained, “The notice of appeal overrides the earlier court judgment. As long as there is a notice of appeal, Rivers State will be paid.”

This statement comes after an October 30 ruling by the Federal High Court in Abuja barred the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) from releasing funds to Rivers State from the consolidated revenue account. The decision was based on a suit filed by the Hon. Martins Amaewhule-led faction of the Rivers State House of Assembly.

In response, Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has taken legal action to overturn the judgment. On Friday, his legal team, led by Senior Advocate of Nigeria Yusuf Ali, urged the Court of Appeal in Abuja to nullify the earlier order, describing it as issued in “bad faith.”

The Court of Appeal, led by Justice Hamma Barka, has since consolidated five other appeals tied to the case, all seeking to reverse the Federal High Court’s judgment. Governor Fubara, along with the Rivers State Government and the Accountant-General of the state, is hopeful for a favorable ruling to secure continued access to federal funds.

The legal developments remain closely watched as they have significant implications for the governance and financial stability of Rivers State.