In a significant victory for Nigeria’s constitutional democracy, the Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has commended the Court of Appeal’s judgment nullifying the Federal High Court’s decision to seize Rivers State’s statutory allocation. The appeal court’s ruling, delivered on Friday, December 13, 2024, by Justice Barka, is being hailed as a triumph for the rule of law, judicial independence, and the principles of federalism.
The court ruled that the Federal High Court lacked jurisdiction in the case, emphasizing that matters regarding state resources and appropriation should fall under the jurisdiction of state high courts. Justice Barka clarified that merely including federal agencies in the suit did not automatically grant the Federal High Court the authority to entertain the matter. This legal clarity reaffirms the autonomy of state governments and limits the potential for undue political interference in the judicial process.
HURIWA, in a statement issued by its National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, celebrated the ruling as a landmark decision that preserved the sanctity of the judiciary and prevented the dangerous politicization of the courts. “This judgment is not just a win for Rivers State, but for the entire Nigerian democracy,” HURIWA stated, adding that the ruling ensured the judiciary remains a steadfast defender of justice, free from political manipulation.
The initial order from the Federal High Court to seize Rivers State’s allocation had raised widespread concerns about the potential for economic and political chaos in the state. HURIWA criticized the move, describing it as a political maneuver designed to cripple the state’s governance structure and financially sabotage its development. The association expressed relief that the Appeal Court had averted what could have been a constitutional crisis with far-reaching consequences for Nigeria’s federal system.
“The court’s decision is a clear statement that the judiciary must not be used as a tool for political vendettas,” Onwubiko said. “It is a resounding affirmation of the need to safeguard judicial independence and ensure that courts remain impartial in the face of political pressures.”
In addition to praising the ruling, HURIWA extended commendations to the Opposition Lawmakers Coalition and other civil society organizations for their unwavering commitment to upholding democracy and defending the rule of law. The group also emphasized the broader legal implications of the ruling, which clarified the jurisdictional boundaries of state and federal courts in matters of state governance.
“The Appeal Court has provided a clear legal framework, reiterating that issues of state resource allocation and appropriation are solely within the purview of state high courts. This landmark judgment has reaffirmed the principles of separation of powers and the autonomy of states within the Nigerian federation,” HURIWA noted.
HURIWA also seized the opportunity to call for greater accountability within the judiciary, urging judges to resist becoming instruments of political manipulation. The association stressed that the judiciary’s primary duty is to uphold justice for all citizens, regardless of political affiliation.
“Public confidence in the judiciary has been restored today. Judges must remain vigilant, ensuring their decisions reflect justice and equity, and not the influence of political forces,” Onwubiko concluded.
As the Appeal Court’s decision reverberates across the country, HURIWA joins the people of Rivers State in celebrating this historic ruling, urging all Nigerians to respect the court’s judgment and work together for a more peaceful and prosperous future.
“The people of Rivers State and the nation as a whole should not allow personal political grudges to jeopardize the welfare of the masses,” HURIWA asserted, calling on leaders to prioritize the public good over partisan interests.
With the victory firmly in place, HURIWA reiterated its commitment to defending democracy and advocating for the rights of all Nigerians, calling on citizens to remain engaged in protecting the country’s democratic institutions.
“This judgment is a wake-up call for every Nigerian to actively protect our democracy and ensure that justice prevails. We must continue to hold our leaders and institutions accountable, ensuring that they operate with integrity and fairness at all times,” Onwubiko concluded.
