The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has hailed the Appeal Court’s judgement nullifying the Federal High Court’s order to seize Rivers State’s statutory allocation as a significant victory for constitutional democracy and the rule of law.

The association praised the Appeal Court’s decision for upholding the principles of federalism and safeguarding the judiciary’s integrity from undue political interference.

In a judgment delivered on Friday, December 13, 2024, by Justice Barka, the Court of Appeal declared that the Federal High Court lacked jurisdiction to entertain the suit seeking to seize Rivers State’s statutory allocation and revenue. Justice Barka emphasised that the mere inclusion of federal agencies in the suit did not automatically confer jurisdiction on the Federal High Court. He further noted that the subject matter of the case; the appropriation of a state’s resources fell squarely under the jurisdiction of the State High Courts.

HURIWA, along with other advocacy groups and legal experts, lauded the Appeal Court’s decision as a historic moment for Nigeria’s democratic consolidation.

In a statement issued by its National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, HURIWA described the judgement as a resounding affirmation of judicial independence and a necessary check against the reckless abuse of court processes to achieve political vendettas.

“The judgment delivered by the Appeal Court is not just a victory for Rivers State; it is a triumph for democracy and the sanctity of the judiciary in Nigeria. By nullifying the flawed ruling of the Federal High Court, the Appeal Court has demonstrated that the judiciary must remain the last hope of the common man, free from political manipulation and malice,” HURIWA stated.

The group noted that the Federal High Court’s initial order to seize the state’s allocation would have caused untold hardship to the people of Rivers State and plunged the state into political and economic chaos.

“The pro-Wike group’s desperate attempt to cripple Rivers State’s finances and undermine its governance structure was a clear act of political sabotage. Such actions, if left unchecked, would have set a dangerous precedent, threatening the very fabric of federalism and democracy in Nigeria,” Onwubiko added.

HURIWA commended the Opposition Lawmakers Coalition and other civil society organisations for their steadfast commitment to defending democracy and the rule of law. The association noted that the Appeal Court’s judgment had averted a constitutional crisis that could have spiralled into anarchy.

“The Appeal Court’s decision also clarified key legal principles regarding the jurisdiction of courts in matters relating to state governance. According to Justice Barka, the Federal High Court erred in entertaining a matter that fell exclusively under the jurisdiction of the state high courts. The judgment reaffirmed that issues related to state appropriation acts are internal affairs of the state and must be addressed within the framework of state laws and courts.

“This landmark judgment has also reaffirmed the sacred principles of our constitutional democracy. It underscores the importance of respecting the separation of powers and the autonomy of states within the Nigerian federation. The Appeal Court’s interpretation of established judicial principles is a testament to the robustness of our legal system,” HURIWA stated.

HURIWA also used the occasion to call for greater accountability within the judiciary, urging judges to resist the temptation of being used as tools for political vendettas. The association stressed that the judiciary’s role is to uphold justice and protect the rights of all citizens, irrespective of political affiliations.

“We must commend the Appeal Court for restoring public confidence in the judiciary by delivering a judgment that aligns with the principles of justice and equity. At the same time, we urge judges at all levels to remain vigilant against any attempt to compromise their integrity. The judiciary must remain a beacon of hope and a defender of democratic values,” Onwubiko emphasized.

As the Appeal Court’s judgement has sparked widespread jubilation, HURIWA joined the people of Rivers State in celebrating the landmark ruling, urging all stakeholders to respect the decision of the Appeal Court and work towards fostering peace and development in the state.

“It is shameful that certain individuals would go to such lengths to pursue personal grudges at the expense of the people’s welfare. We urge the pro-Wike group to reflect on the consequences of their actions and prioritize the interests of the people over political gamesmanship,” HURIWA stated.

HURIWA reiterated its commitment to defending democracy, the rule of law, and the rights of all Nigerians. The association called on all well-meaning citizens to support the Appeal Court’s decision and work towards building a more just and equitable society.

“This judgement is a wake-up call for all Nigerians to remain vigilant in protecting our democracy. We must continue to hold our leaders and institutions accountable, ensuring that justice and fairness prevail at all times,” Onwubiko concluded.

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