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Supreme Court Dismisses Governor Fubara’s Suit Against Pro-Wike 27 Rivers Lawmakers
The Supreme Court has dismissed the suit brought by Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, seeking to remove 27 members of the State House of Assembly on the grounds of their alleged defection from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The apex court dismissed the suit on Monday in a ruling delivered by Justice Musa Uwani-Aba-Aji, following the dramatic withdrawal of the appeal by Fubara through his lead counsel, Yusuf Ali SAN.
In the notice for withdrawal, Governor Fubara simply informed a three-member panel of justices that events had overtaken his suit and that the lawmakers were their friends.
The request for the withdrawal of the contentious suit was not opposed by the Rivers State House of Assembly or its Speaker, Martin Amaewhule, who were represented by Chief Wole Olanipekun SAN. However, Olanipekun SAN demanded outright dismissal of the suit on the basis that the parties had filed and exchanged their briefs of argument and thus joined issues with each other.
He argued that the proper order to be made in the circumstances was the dismissal of the case, which the court agreed with.
With no objections from the parties, the apex court dismissed the case and awarded £4 million against Fubara to be paid to the House of Assembly and Amaewhule.
Addressing journalists shortly after the dismissal of the suit, Senior Advocate of Nigeria Ken Njemanze stated that the coast has now been cleared for the 27 lawmakers to fully take over the House of Assembly.
The senior advocate explained that all actions taken by Fubara in the absence of the 27 lawmakers, including the presentation of the 2024 and 2025 budgets to only three lawmakers, have now become a nullity.
The Court of Appeal had dismissed Fubara’s appeal on the same matter on 10 October 2024.
Similarly, the Federal High Court in Abuja, presided over by Justice James Omotosho on 22 January 2024, nullified the passage of Rivers State’s £800 billion 2024 budget by four members of the House of Assembly.
The court described the bill’s passage by the four lawmakers, led by Hon. Ehie Edison, as an aberration and an illegality.
It consequently ordered Governor Fubara to re-present the budget to the assembly led by Hon. Martin Amaewhule.
The suit filed by the 27 members of the Assembly loyal to former governor of the state and Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike received the blessing of the lower court.
Listed as defendants in the suit marked FHC/ABJ/CS/1613/2023 are the National Assembly, the Senate, the House of Representatives, and the Clerk to the National Assembly.
Others include Governor Fubara, Hon. Edison, the Rivers State Civil Service Commission, and the Inspector-General of Police (IGP).
Justice Omotosho, while ruling on an ex-parte motion by the 27 legislators, issued an interim order restraining Fubara and his agents from obstructing the pro-Wike legislators from carrying out their constitutional duties.
He also restrained the governor from removing or redeploying the Clerk of the Assembly and from withholding funds meant for the Assembly, pending the determination of the substantive suit.
However, while the order subsisted, Governor Fubara presented the budget that was passed by the four lawmakers loyal to him.
The governor had also prevented the pro-Wike legislators from convening by demolishing part of the Assembly complex and withholding funds for legislative functions.
Delivering judgment, Justice Omotosho held that the four lawmakers’ passage of the budget and other actions taken while the 30 November 2023 order subsisted amounted to a nullity.
He stated that the governor acted like a tyrant in the manner in which the Assembly complex was partially demolished and funds for legislative activities were withheld.
The judge issued an order restraining Fubara from frustrating the Assembly, led by Hon. Amaewhule, from sitting or interfering in its activities.
He also described as unlawful Governor Fubara’s redeployment of the Clerk and Deputy Clerk out of the Assembly, stating that such action amounted to an affront on the separation of powers.
The judge ordered the Clerk and Deputy Clerk to resume office immediately and without hindrance.
In addition to ordering Fubara to promptly release all funds standing to the credit of the Assembly, he also instructed the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) to immediately deploy his operatives to the Assembly complex.
The judge further barred the National Assembly from taking over the Assembly or accepting or treating any request from Governor Fubara on any matter affecting the legislature.
By Israel Bulus, Kaduna
In the heart of Southern Kaduna, where the demand for quality education, accessible healthcare, and economic empowerment continues to grow, one leader has emerged as a beacon of hope—Senator Sunday Marshall Katung. His tenure in the Senate has not only been marked by passionate advocacy but also by tangible results that have transformed lives and communities.
True leadership is measured by impact, not just words. Since assuming office, Senator Katung has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to his people, pushing for policies and initiatives that directly address their needs. His legislative efforts have focused on critical areas such as education, healthcare, economic empowerment, and infrastructural development.
One of his most transformative achievements is his role in the establishment of the Federal University of Applied Sciences in Kachia—a milestone that will provide thousands of young people with access to technical and vocational education. This university is set to bridge the gap between education and employability, equipping students with practical skills for the modern job market.
In the healthcare sector, Senator Katung’s advocacy for the upgrade of the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) Kafanchan has led to improved medical services, better healthcare infrastructure, and greater access to specialized treatment for residents. His unwavering support for healthcare initiatives continues to improve the quality of life in his constituency.
Beyond legislation, Senator Katung has taken bold steps to empower his constituents economically. Through targeted vocational training programs and financial grants, he has supported over 1,000 small businesses and entrepreneurs across Southern Kaduna. Women and youth, in particular, have benefitted from these initiatives, enabling them to achieve financial independence and contribute to the local economy.
Additionally, his scholarship programs have opened doors for students who might have otherwise been unable to afford higher education. So many students have benefitted from these educational interventions, reinforcing his belief that investing in the youth is the key to a brighter future.
At a time when political divisions often slow down progress, Senator Katung has proven to be a unifying force. His ability to work across party lines to pass crucial legislation underscores his commitment to governance over partisanship. He maintains an open-door policy, engaging with his constituents regardless of political affiliation, and ensuring that every voice is heard in the Senate.
Perhaps the most significant testament to Senator Katung’s leadership is the overwhelming support he enjoys from his people. Whether through community engagements or social media interactions, the gratitude and admiration from his constituents reflect the deep impact of his work.
As he continues his journey of service, his vision remains clear: to build a more prosperous, inclusive, and developed Southern Kaduna. With a track record of achievements and an unshakable commitment to the welfare of his people, Senator Sunday Marshall Katung is not just a politician—he is a leader whose impact will be felt for generations to come.
By Israel Bulus
In the heart of Southern Kaduna, where the demand for quality education, accessible healthcare, and economic empowerment continues to grow, one leader has emerged as a beacon of hope—Senator Sunday Marshall Katung. His tenure in the Senate has not only been marked by passionate advocacy but also by tangible results that have transformed lives and communities.
True leadership is measured by impact, not just words. Since assuming office, Senator Katung has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to his people, pushing for policies and initiatives that directly address their needs. His legislative efforts have focused on critical areas such as education, healthcare, economic empowerment, and infrastructural development.
One of his most transformative achievements is his role in the establishment of the Federal University of Applied Sciences in Kachia—a milestone that will provide thousands of young people with access to technical and vocational education. This university is set to bridge the gap between education and employability, equipping students with practical skills for the modern job market.
In the healthcare sector, Senator Katung’s advocacy for the upgrade of the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) Kafanchan has led to improved medical services, better healthcare infrastructure, and greater access to specialized treatment for residents. His unwavering support for healthcare initiatives continues to improve the quality of life in his constituency.
Beyond legislation, Senator Katung has taken bold steps to empower his constituents economically. Through targeted vocational training programs and financial grants, he has supported over 1,000 small businesses and entrepreneurs across Southern Kaduna. Women and youth, in particular, have benefitted from these initiatives, enabling them to achieve financial independence and contribute to the local economy.
Additionally, his scholarship programs have opened doors for students who might have otherwise been unable to afford higher education. So many students have benefitted from these educational interventions, reinforcing his belief that investing in the youth is the key to a brighter future.
At a time when political divisions often slow down progress, Senator Katung has proven to be a unifying force. His ability to work across party lines to pass crucial legislation underscores his commitment to governance over partisanship. He maintains an open-door policy, engaging with his constituents regardless of political affiliation, and ensuring that every voice is heard in the Senate.
Perhaps the most significant testament to Senator Katung’s leadership is the overwhelming support he enjoys from his people. Whether through community engagements or social media interactions, the gratitude and admiration from his constituents reflect the deep impact of his work.
As he continues his journey of service, his vision remains clear: to build a more prosperous, inclusive, and developed Southern Kaduna. With a track record of achievements and an unshakable commitment to the welfare of his people, Senator Sunday Marshall Katung is not just a politician—he is a leader whose impact will be felt for generations to come.
End.
By Israel Bulus
The Kaduna State Government has assured that it will revive scholarships for young sports enthusiasts as part of efforts to promote talent development and youth engagement.
The State Commissioner for Sports, Professor Benjamin Gugwong, gave this assurance on behalf of the government on Sunday during the kickoff of a unity football competition organized by Kamrum Integrated Farms in Zango Kataf Local Government Area.
Gugwong emphasized the government’s commitment to nurturing sports talents, stating that reviving the scholarship scheme will provide young athletes with opportunities to further their education while excelling in their chosen sports.
He commended Kamrum Integrated Farms for organizing the competition, describing it as a vital initiative that fosters unity and peace among youths in the state.
Earlier, the Chief Executive Officer of Kamrum Integrated Farms, Mr. Rijo Shekari, explained that the competition was conceived to promote peace and youth development within the area.
” Sports has a unique way of bringing people together, and through this tournament, he hopes to encourage youth participation in productive activities while identifying and nurturing football talents.
In their show of support, the Chairman of the Kaduna Internal Revenue Service (KADIRS), Mr. Jerry Adams, announced a donation of ₦500,000, and the Chairman of Kaura Local Government Area, Mr. Sankye Obadiah also gave ₦200,000 towards the competition, promising continued support for initiatives that promote youth empowerment and community engagement.
Delivering a goodwill message on behalf of the Chairman of Zango Kataf Local Government, the Vice Chairman, Mr. Godwin Ishaya Dandaura, commended Mr. Shekari for organizing the tournament.
He urged all participating teams to play with the spirit of sportsmanship, stressing that the competition should not be seen as a do-or-die affair but as a platform to build friendships and unity.
Also speaking, the Chairman, organising committee of the tournament, Mr. Gunners James, said the winner of the competition will receive one million naira cash price aside from the trophy, while the first runner up will get five hundred thousand naira.
ELANZA NEWS reports that a total of twenty-three football teams have registered to participate in the competition.