The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has unleashed a scathing attack on former Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, and the PDP Governors Forum Chairman, Bala Mohammed, following the Supreme Court’s ruling against the Rivers State government.
Wike, known for his combative political style, questioned whether Atiku and Mohammed—who had previously applauded Governor Sim Fubara—would continue to back him now that the apex court had stepped in.
In a landmark judgment, Justice Emmanuel Akomaye Agim ordered the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Accountant General of the Federation to immediately halt fund allocations to the Rivers State government. The restriction, the court ruled, would remain until Governor Fubara ceases all unconstitutional and unlawful actions.
Furthermore, the Supreme Court declared that Rivers State funds can only be accessed once a valid Appropriation Law is enacted under the leadership of Martin Amaewhule, the speaker of the reinstated 27-member Rivers House of Assembly.
The court’s decision effectively dismantled Fubara’s grip on governance, signaling the return of the embattled lawmakers to the state assembly and reinforcing the legal necessity for due process in budgetary allocations.
Reacting to the ruling, Wike wasted no time in celebrating, calling it a victory for the rule of law and the people of Rivers State. Addressing a press conference in Abuja, he condemned Fubara’s administration for promoting lawlessness and impunity.
“These are some of the things we see in this country,” he said. “When you stand for the truth, they resort to blackmail and propaganda. But today, the Supreme Court has spoken: no budget, no money. You cannot continue to mismanage state funds without legislative approval.”
The former Rivers State governor also took a swipe at Fubara’s refusal to adhere to electoral laws regarding local government elections. “You refused to follow the Electoral Act in conducting LG elections. INEC refused to release the voter register because you failed to comply with a court order—yet people cheered you on. Today, the law has caught up with you.”
“Where Are Atiku and Bala Mohammed Now?” – Wike Fires Shots
In a sarcastic jibe at his political rivals, Wike mocked Atiku Abubakar and Bala Mohammed, who had previously supported Fubara.
“People like Atiku were singing his praises. I hope they will hail him today too? I hope the Chairman of the PDP Governors Forum will also applaud him now?” Wike asked, his tone dripping with irony.
The FCT Minister concluded his remarks with a stern warning about the dangers of undermining democratic institutions.
“The Supreme Court has drawn the line—this impunity must stop. If this had been allowed to continue, tomorrow, one person could claim to be the entire legislative assembly, and there would be nothing anyone could do about it. Democracy must be upheld.”
With the Supreme Court’s ruling now in force, the political battle in Rivers State has entered a new phase—one that could reshape the state’s leadership dynamics and expose the fault lines within the PDP.
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