Supreme Court’s Ruling on Rivers Lawmakers Sparks Controversy and Public Outcry

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Supreme Court’s Ruling on Rivers Lawmakers Sparks Controversy and Public Outcry

 

By: Daure David

The recent judgment by Nigeria’s Supreme Court concerning the Rivers State lawmakers has ignited a storm of controversy, with many critics accusing the Court of bias in its decision. The ruling, which upheld the legality of the 27 defected lawmakers who switched from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), has left many questioning the integrity of the country’s apex judiciary body.

Observers and political analysts have raised concerns that the Supreme Court did not consider the moral implications of its ruling. According to some legal experts, the Court’s decision failed to reflect the broader societal impact of allowing lawmakers who defected without due process to continue functioning as legitimate representatives of the state.

The case revolves around the 27 PDP lawmakers from Rivers State, who defected to the APC. While their defection did not formally come before the Court in this case, many argue that it was widely publicized and known to the justices through media coverage. Critics claim that the Supreme Court’s decision disregarded the fact that these lawmakers had violated the legal requirements for such a defection, thus making their actions illegal.

Governor Siminalayi Fubara, the elected governor of Rivers State, rejected the legislative actions of these defected lawmakers. He argued that since they had lost their legal standing as lawmakers due to their illegal defection, the laws they passed—including the state budget—should not be recognized. His stance was supported by many who believe that allowing such illegalities to stand would undermine the rule of law in the state.

In contrast, three other lawmakers, who remained loyal to the PDP, passed a budget that Governor Fubara accepted, citing their legal legitimacy. Supporters of Governor Fubara’s position argue that the Supreme Court should have taken a non-partisan stance in this matter, recognizing the legitimacy of the budget passed by the remaining lawful lawmakers in order to ensure the smooth functioning of the state.

However, the Court’s ruling did not acknowledge these moral considerations, leading many to feel that the decision was politically motivated and unfairly tilted in favor of the APC. Critics argue that the judgment could spark widespread unrest and public dissatisfaction in Rivers State, with the potential to disrupt peace and order.

Moreover, this ruling raises broader concerns about the judicial independence of Nigeria’s Supreme Court. Some believe that the Court has allowed itself to be swayed by political interests, rather than sticking strictly to legal principles. These allegations of bias have left many Nigerians questioning the fairness and impartiality of the judiciary.

In a similar vein, the Supreme Court’s recent handling of the Imo State governorship election controversy has also raised eyebrows. In that case, the Court declined to enforce its earlier judgment that Uche Nwosu, a candidate in the 2019 Imo governorship election, should be declared the winner. The Court’s refusal to give effect to its own ruling has been interpreted by some as a tactical decision aimed at preserving political stability and avoiding public unrest.

The public’s growing disillusionment with the judiciary is evident, with many accusing the Supreme Court of selectively applying the law depending on the political circumstances. Some Nigerians are now calling for a review of the Rivers State lawmakers’ case to restore public confidence in the Court and reaffirm its role as an impartial body that serves the interests of justice.

This controversy has highlighted a critical issue—whether the Supreme Court, in its role as the final arbiter, should only make decisions based on strict legal interpretation or whether it should also factor in the moral consequences of its rulings. Legal scholars argue that the judiciary must balance both legal and moral considerations to ensure its decisions promote justice and societal well-being.

The need for the Court to review its judgment on the Rivers State case is becoming increasingly urgent, as public trust in the institution continues to erode. As the controversy simmers, Nigerians will be watching closely to see how the Supreme Court responds to these calls for fairness and impartiality in the dispensation of justice.

Insecurity: Benue Gov Issues Stern Warning

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Insecurity: Benue Gov Issues Stern Warning

For Immediate release

PRESS STATEMENT

Tuesday, March 4 2025

Gentlemen of the Press,
The Executive Governor of Benue State, His Excellency, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, in his capacity as the Chief Security Officer of the State and in line with his constitutional duty of protecting lives and property, hereby issues the following directives:

It is on record that court premises in Benue State have remained closed since December 6, 2024 due to the ongoing strike by the Judiciary Staff Union of Nigeria (JUSUN).

Consequently, all individuals and groups are directed to refrain from carrying out any form of activity within or around the court premises until further notice.

His Excellency acknowledges that the Local Government Election Petition Tribunals are utilizing some court halls for their proceedings. Recognizing the time-bound nature of election petitions, he has directs that only the Election Petition Tribunals be allowed access to the designated court premises where they are sitting.

To ensure the safety and security of all concerned, His Excellency has put in place necessary security measures to protect members of the tribunals, petitioners, respondents, their legal representatives, witnesses and the tribunal secretariat.

In the interest of maintaining law and order, His Excellency bans any form of protest, unauthorized gathering, or commercial activities such as hawking within and around the court premises. Anyone found violating this directive will face legal consequences.

His Excellency guarantees a peaceful atmosphere for the continued sittings of the Benue State Local Government Election Petition Tribunal in the open court in Benue State, ensuring that due process is followed without any form of interference.

As a firm believer in the judiciary and the rule of law, His Excellency urges members of the public to remain calm and patient as they await the tribunal’s decisions.

His Excellency reaffirms that since assuming office, Benue State has enjoyed relative peace on the security front, though some challenges persist.

He assures the people of Benue that his administration remains committed to enhancing security and ensuring a safe and peaceful state for all.

Thank you all and God bless Benue State.:

Sir Tersoo Kula, MNIPR
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor.

Don’t Make ANIM State Creation Movement Clannish Affair, Orlu Group Tells Uzodimma Kinsman, Izunaso

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Don’t Make ANIM State Creation Movement Clannish Affair, Orlu Group Tells Uzodimma Kinsman, Izunaso

 

The Movement for the creation of ANIM State from Orlu zone and some parts of Anambra State has called on Senator Osita Izunaso, representing Orlu Senatorial zone in the red chamber of the national assembly not to make the movement an Oru affair, as that will diminish it’s scope.

The National Coordinator of the group, Comrade Justice Chukwu Obasi who stated this while commenting on the recent visit of the group to the Deputy Senate President, Barau Jibrin noted that “the delegation of the movement that visited the Deputy Senate President erroneously gave the impression that it was a clannish affair, as most of those who accompanied Senator Izunaso on the visit are from either Oru East or Oru West. Hence we are of the opinion that making the movement and it’s modus operandi a clannish affair will be counter productive.”

They recalled that, “when Governor Uzodinma was in the senate, he carried everybody along, including some of our brothers from Anambra State. Much as we appreciate Senator Izunaso’s effort in championing the clamour for the creation of a new state in the southeast, we believe that his efforts will be counter productive if he does not carry Orlu people along. Besides such seclusion will isolate others who are willing to throw their weight behind the project”.

They regretted that Izunaso’s entourage to the Deputy Senate President makes it look like an Oru affair. This, they said does not send a good message adding that there is need to make the clamour for a new state all encompassing.

Recall, that some elders from Orlu zone recently accompanied Senator Osita Izunaso on a visit to the Deputy Senate President to solicit for the creation of Ani State. Some of those who accompanied him on the visit are Chief Emeka Mgbenwelu, HRM, Eze Cletus llomuanya, Chief Osita Nwaneri, and few others.

VIDEO: Pentecostal Pastor Dares Anambra Native Doctor Who Burnt Bible to Power Showdown

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VIDEO: Pentecostal Pastor Dares Anambra Native Doctor Who Burnt Bible to Power Showdown

 

By Izunna Okafor, Awka

Prominent Pentecostal cleric, Dr. Jerry Nwachukwu, has challenged one Mathias Ejiofor Ezeaku, a native doctor, to supremacy contest in Anambra state.

Dr. Nwachukwu, Senior Pastor of the Bible Base Miracle Assembly, Nkpor-Agu, said he was upset that Mathias Ezeaku, a native doctor, took to the social media to say that Jesus Christ has no power to heal the sick, make the lame walk or make the barren to conceive, among other claims.

In his message during a Sunday Service in his church, at No.19 Ezendu Street, off Mercedes Avenue, Nkpor-Agu, Nwachukwu berated the native doctor, while challenging him to choose a venue where he (Nwachukwu) will demonstrate to him that there is a supreme God above all other gods.

He said, “Right from the Old Testament, the scripture has shown and demonstrated the power of the Almighty God above all other gods. In the New Testament, Jesus Christ demonstrated in many episodes that what could be done and achieved in His name is limitless.

“Therefore, I challenge Mathias Ezeaku, who has claimed in several fora, including on the social media, that no pastor can heal, unbound or restore in the name of Jesus Christ, to choose a venue and date, so that it will be demonstrated to him that all powers belong to God, and His son, Jesus Christ.

“If Mathias Ezeaku has no venue, I challenge him to come to United Primary School field, Nkpor-Agu, between March 23 and March 30. Let’s organize a crusade there. I want Mathias Ezeaku with all the native doctors he knows, to come over there with hundreds of blind people, the lame, the cripple, and people possessed by unclean spirit and witness how they will be restored in the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth.

“In the New Testament, Jesus demonstrated his supernatural powers through healing the sick, casting out demons, raising the dead, controlling nature (like calming storms), and miraculously feeding large crowds; these acts are documented across all four Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John).

“Jesus is the same today, tomorrow and forever. The same thing He did in the scriptures, He still does them today, and will not stop doing same.

“In 2 Chronicles 20:6, the Bible says ‘God rules over all the kingdoms of the nations. In His hand are power and might, so that none is able to withstand Him’.

“Mathias Ezeaku will certainly witness this power of God, and His son, Jesus Christ. If he honoured this challenge, and come to this crusade, he will encounter the experience of Paul when he going to persecute Christians. In that crusade, he shall renounce peganism and accept Jesus Christ as his Lord and personal savior.”

This reporter, Izunna Okafor, recalls that Ezeaku, in a viral video, burnt the holy Bible and also denounced Christianity, declaring that Jesus Christ is a scam.

Watch the video below:

Fubara vs. Wike: “Plot To Doctor Supreme Court Judgement Uncovered”

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Fubara vs. Wike: “Plot To Doctor Supreme Court Judgement Uncovered”

Shocking Ongoing Development

Plot to doctor Supreme Court Judgement on Rivers and insert issues of defection that were not litigated by the parties by the pro-Wike group to help destroy the pending cases on defection before the Appeal Court and Federal High Court.

I have just been reliably informed of a last minute desperate moves by Former Gov.Wike and his lawyers working with some elements in the Supreme Court to use the ongoing writing of the Recently delivered Judgement of the Supreme Court on the issue of Rivers LGA election and presentation of Budget to smuggle an item which was never the substantive matter that the Supreme Court decided and which was never part of what was read in the open Court, the issue of the legality of the decampment of the Wike loyal lawmakers from PDP to APC at a time there was no crisis.

Atiku's Presidency: You're Deceiving Yourself, Frank Tells Bode George 
Timi Frank

This desperate move, which will rubbish the integrity of the Supreme Court if not stopped by our respected jurist, will do irredeemable damage to our nation’s apex and respected Court.

The move is to insert over two pages of strange ruling on defection, knowing fully well that the illegal defection of the Wike group of lawmakers was not the subject matter before the Court, but rather on the issue of conduct of LGA election and Amaewhule’s claim to speakership based on cases they filled even before their defection. What they want to push into the Judgment secretly was never part of the ruling of the lower courts or the Supreme Court. They are already celebrating, and my contact in the chamber of one of their lawyers has shown me a draft of what they are confident will be inserted today ahead of the release of the typed CTC of the Judgment today or tomorrow.

Wike’s aide refutes land grabbing allegations against FCTA
FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike

The issue of defection and legal battle to decide whether they were right or wrong is presently at the Appeal Court and Federal High Court, where Nigerians are waiting to see the judicial interpretation of the illegal act of cross carpeting at a time there was no division which was also backed by a court affidavit sworn to by the defected lawmakers.

The desperate lobby and move to smuggle into the Judgment that is being typed is a last-minute desperate effort by the wike people to use it as an advantage to derail and undermine the ongoing case on their defection, which is before the Appeal Court and Federal High Court.

We are calling on the Supreme Court Chief Justice and the Panel of Justices who heard the case to ensure that the desperate attempts of the Wike group do not taint their Judgement and that the issue of defection, which is still at the Appeal Court, is not imported into the Judgement to undermine the ongoing cases. We are confident that the eminent jurist who delivered the Judgment knows the issues at stake and will not fail Nigerians by ensuring that a check is put on the Wike group’s political madness and desperation, which is threatening constitutional democracy in Nigeria.

Comrade Timi Frank
Former APC Publicity Secretary and International Human Rights Activist.

Governor Bala Mohammed Hosts Islamic Scholars for Ramadan Iftar in Government House Bauchi

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Governor Bala Mohammed Hosts Islamic Scholars for Ramadan Iftar in Government House Bauchi

 

By: Daure David

In a show of unity and commitment to religious harmony, Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State hosted Islamic scholars from various mosques across the state to a special Ramadan Iftar at the Government House. The event, which took place on the third day of Iftar, brought together prominent religious leaders and members of the Islamic community in the state.

Addressing the gathering, Governor Bala Mohammed emphasized the vital role that religious leaders play in the success of government policies and programs. He described them as critical stakeholders whose support is essential for fostering peace, stability, and development within the state and the nation at large.

The Governor reassured the scholars that his administration is committed to inclusivity and will continue to carry all religious groups along in the governance process. He urged the Islamic scholars to continue to support the government in its efforts to achieve sustainable growth and development for the people of Bauchi State.

“I urge you to use this blessed month of Ramadan to pray for peace and stability, not only in our state but in the entire country. Let us all pray for Allah’s guidance in enabling the government to execute developmental projects that will benefit the people,” Governor Bala Mohammed stated.

In his remarks, Sheik Dr. Sani Umar Rijiyan Lemo, who spoke on behalf of the Islamic scholars, expressed gratitude to the Governor for the warm invitation. He assured the Governor that as religious leaders, they will continue to pray for the state, the country, and the leadership at all levels.

“We will pray to Allah to help us overcome the challenges facing our people and our nation. May Allah grant peace, stability, and prosperity to Bauchi State and Nigeria as a whole,” Sheik Lemo added.

The 2025 Iftar gathering served as an opportunity for both religious leaders and the Governor to reaffirm their commitment to working together towards the continued growth and development of the state. It also provided a platform for strengthening the relationship between the government and the religious community.

Governor Bala Mohammed’s initiative to engage Islamic scholars during Ramadan reflects his administration’s commitment to promoting peace, religious harmony, and sustainable development in Bauchi State. As the holy month of Ramadan continues, the Governor’s call for prayers for peace and progress resonates deeply with the people of the state and the country.

Governor Fubara to Commission Rehabilitated Mile 1 Fire Service Station in Rivers State

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Governor Fubara to Commission Rehabilitated Mile 1 Fire Service Station in Rivers State

 

By: Daure David

His Excellency, the Governor of Rivers State, Sir Siminalayi Fubara of PDP, is set to commission the newly rehabilitated Mile 1 Fire Service Station today, marking a significant milestone in the revitalization of the Rivers State Fire Service.

The Mile 1 Fire Service Station, which had been dormant for over a decade, has undergone extensive repairs and refurbishment under the current administration. Governor Fubara’s commitment to improving the state’s emergency response infrastructure has led to the rejuvenation of this critical facility, aimed at enhancing the state’s ability to respond swiftly to fire incidents and other emergencies.

The rehabilitation of the Mile 1 Fire Service Station is a part of a broader effort by the Fubara-led administration to modernize and revitalize the state’s fire services. The Governor’s vision for a safer Rivers State is evident in his focus on providing the fire service with the resources and equipment necessary to address the growing challenges posed by fire outbreaks and other disasters.

This newly refurbished station is one of three fire service stations rehabilitated by the current administration, with plans for further improvements across the state to ensure effective and efficient emergency response. The rehabilitation efforts will not only help in curbing the frequency and intensity of fire disasters but will also enhance the capacity of the fire service to save lives and properties during emergencies.

Governor Fubara’s administration has made significant strides in improving public safety, with infrastructure projects like these aimed at bolstering the state’s emergency services, providing better protection to residents, and ensuring the overall well-being of the people of Rivers State.

The commissioning ceremony is expected to be attended by various stakeholders, including government officials, fire service personnel, and members of the public, all of whom will witness firsthand the advancements made in ensuring a safer, more resilient Rivers State.

As the Governor continues his efforts to strengthen the state’s emergency infrastructure, the commissioning of the rehabilitated Mile 1 Fire Service Station stands as a testament to the administration’s commitment to public safety and disaster preparedness in Rivers State.

Supreme Court’s Delay in Issuing Certified True Copy of Judgment Sparks Concerns Over Misinterpretations

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Supreme Court’s Delay in Issuing Certified True Copy of Judgment Sparks Concerns Over Misinterpretations

 

By: Daure David

There is growing concern over the delay in issuing the Certified True Copy (CTC) of a recent judgment delivered by the Supreme Court. Although the judgment was read aloud in open court for approximately one hour and thirty-five minutes, litigants and legal professionals are still waiting for the CTC, nearly one week after its delivery. This delay has led to widespread confusion and misinterpretations surrounding the judgment’s content, with many individuals taking positions based on hearsay or personal sentiment rather than the actual text of the decision.

The legal community and the public have raised questions about why it takes the Supreme Court so long to produce and issue a CTC after a judgment is delivered. A CTC is a vital document that ensures the judgment is accurately recorded and officially signed by the justices. While the judgment may already be written down, the process of certifying and issuing it is thought to be relatively straightforward—simply requiring the justices to sign off on the written document and release it to the litigants.

However, sources suggest that there may be more to the process than meets the eye. “There may be other procedural matters, like ensuring that the judgment is fully accurate and in line with legal norms, that could explain the delay,” said a source familiar with the process. “But the lack of transparency in how long this takes is undoubtedly raising questions about the Court’s efficiency.”

One of the major concerns surrounding the delay is the growing number of misconceptions about the judgment. Those who were not present during the reading of the judgment or have not yet seen the CTC are relying on word of mouth or interpretations from others. Legal professionals fear that this could lead to significant errors in understanding, particularly if individuals or media outlets take parts of the judgment out of context.

Chetam Thierry Nwala Esq., a legal practitioner, voiced frustration at the delay. He argued that while it is understandable that preparing the CTC may take time, the extended wait is hindering a clear understanding of the judgment. “The delay is creating room for misinterpretation and misconceptions on several aspects of the judgment. Most of the people taking positions on the judgment have not read it or were not present when it was delivered, which is leading to blind conclusions,” Nwala said.

He went on to emphasize that, for those who were present in the courtroom, it is nearly impossible to retain all of the information presented during a one-hour-and-thirty-five-minute reading. “That’s why the CTC is crucial—it provides clarity and allows for accurate reference,” he added.

The delay is also drawing attention to broader concerns about the pace of the judicial process and the need for the Supreme Court to streamline its procedures. As the final arbiter in the nation’s legal system, the Court’s decisions hold significant weight, and ensuring transparency and clarity in its processes is essential for upholding the rule of law and public confidence.

While it is understood that the Supreme Court may have internal processes to manage, it is clear that timely issuance of the CTC is critical for the public, litigants, and legal practitioners alike. The public trust in the judiciary’s work depends on its ability to provide clear, accurate, and prompt judgments—something that is currently at risk due to these delays.

As the legal community eagerly awaits the CTC, questions remain about how the Supreme Court can address this issue to prevent future delays and confusion. For now, litigants and the public must remain patient, while also hoping for a more efficient system moving forward.

Many Arrested, Weapons Recovered As Police Cracked Down On Kidnapping In Owerri

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Many Arrested, Weapons Recovered As Police Cracked Down On Kidnapping In Owerri

 

Sequel to a series of complaints of kidnapping in Irete and other Communities in Owerri West LGA, operatives of the Imo State Police Command on 2nd March, 2025 conducted a well-coordinated operation at a forest in Irete, leading to the arrest of four suspected kidnappers. This operation is part of ongoing efforts to rid the state of criminal elements responsible for the recent surge in abductions and other violent crimes in the area.

Acting on credible intelligence, operatives stormed a forest hideout in Irete, apprehending four suspects: Sulieman Ahmed (26), Mohammed Salisu (31), and Gambo Jefta (26), all from Jigawa State, and Gabriel Ogbuzuru from Ebonyi State. Upon searching the suspects and their hideout, three fabricated short with six rounds of live cartridges, and three matchete were recovered.

The suspects are currently in custody and will face prosecution. Following this achievement, the Commissioner of Police, CP Aboki Danjuma led further combing operations on 3rd March 2025 to apprehend additional fleeing suspects.

CP Aboki Danjuma has also intensified security measures, including confidence-building patrols and collaboration with local vigilantes, to enhance peace and security in the region. He assures the public of the Command’s commitment to dismantling all criminal networks and maintaining a safer Imo State.

The Imo State Police Command calls on the public to remain vigilant and law-abiding as security operations continue across the state. Citizens are encouraged to report any suspicious movements or criminal activities to the nearest police station or via Command’s emergency hotlines 0803 477 3600, 08148024755. Together, we can build a safer and prosperous Imo State.

The Police Public Relations Officer In Imo State, DSP Henry Okoye disclosed this on Monday.

Bauchi Governor Urges North-East PDP Officials to Secure Victory in 2027 Election

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Bauchi Governor Urges North-East PDP Officials to Secure Victory in 2027 Election

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By: Daure David

Governor Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed of Bauchi State has called on the newly elected officials of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in the North-East to devise strategies to ensure the party’s success in the 2027 general elections. The governor made the call during the inauguration of the North-East Zonal Officials of the PDP at the zonal office in Bauchi on Monday, March 3, 2025.

Represented by his Deputy, Rt. Hon. Mohammed Auwal Jatau, Governor Mohammed criticized the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), claiming that the party has failed to live up to its promises and has only deepened the hardships faced by Nigerians. He emphasized that the APC must be voted out in the upcoming 2027 elections.

“The APC has failed in its years of governance in Nigeria. Rather than creating jobs, they have fostered more hardship. Instead of alleviating poverty, their policies have intensified the suffering of Nigerian families, leaving them to battle hunger and poverty,” said Governor Mohammed.

He further pointed out that the inauguration of the North-East Zonal Officials marks the beginning of a concerted effort to restore the hopes, dreams, and aspirations of Nigerians, particularly those in the North-East. He encouraged the newly inaugurated officials to recognize the weight of their responsibility, calling on them to unite and lead the party toward reclaiming the future of Nigeria.

“This is a pivotal moment for us as a party, and for the country as a whole. The next election is not just about political power; it is about the future of our children, the security of our people, and the well-being of every Nigerian,” he added. “We must ensure that the voices of the people are heard, their hopes revived, and their future secured.”

Governor Mohammed also reiterated that the failure of the APC to provide basic necessities and leadership had left the nation in a dire state, but he expressed confidence that the PDP would offer an alternative leadership based on integrity, compassion, and a commitment to the people.

“Our mission is clear: we will not allow the dreams of our citizens to die under the weight of incompetence and mismanagement,” he stated. “We are determined to lead Nigeria back to a path of progress, prosperity, and unity.”

Congratulating the newly inaugurated officials, Governor Mohammed assured them of his administration’s full support in their efforts to bring about meaningful change. “You are the vanguard of change in this region. You must work tirelessly and collectively to achieve the desired objectives. Your success is our success, and together, we will build a better Nigeria.”

In his response, the newly sworn-in North-East Zonal Chairman of the PDP, Babangida Umar, acknowledged the enormity of the task before them and promised to work diligently alongside his team to ensure the party’s victory in the upcoming elections.

The event in Bauchi marks an important step in the PDP’s preparations for the 2027 elections, as the party aims to unseat the APC and provide a leadership that better addresses the needs of Nigerians across the country.

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