The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has sternly spoken against enmeshing the judiciary in Rivers State in the ongoing political conflict, cautioning that such actions could erode public confidence in the legal system.
The admonition is sequel to the Rivers State House of Assembly’s demand for the Department of State Services (DSS) to investigate the State Chief Judge, Justice Simeon Amadi, over alleged age falsification.
Chairperson of the NBA Port Harcourt branch, Cordelia Eke, stressed that such matters should be directed to the National Judicial Council (NJC), not the DSS. Eke expressed disappointment that despite the Supreme Court’s ruling, tensions in the state continue to rise.
She urged political leaders to respect the separation of powers and explore alternative dispute resolution methods rather than inflaming the situation. Eke also warned that ongoing instability in Rivers State could discourage investors and disrupt governance.
The political standoff has intensified as the Rivers State House of Assembly accused Governor Siminalayi Fubara of ignoring the Supreme Court ruling, which instructed him to present the 2025 budget anew. Lawmakers loyal to former Governor Nyesom Wike challenged Fubara’s claim that he had sent an official letter to the Assembly, insisting that no such communication had been received.
Assembly spokesperson Enemi George demanded that the governor provide an acknowledged copy of the letter, dismissing the use of a WhatsApp message as unprofessional. He also accused Fubara of obstructing efforts to resolve the crisis.
In response, Rivers State Commissioner for Information Joseph Johnson insisted that Fubara had formally written to the Assembly and urged lawmakers to schedule an emergency session to present the budget. “We propose Wednesday, March 19, for the budget presentation and expect the Assembly to facilitate this,” Johnson said.
As the conflict continues, calls for dialogue and peaceful resolution are growing, with many hoping to avoid further disruption to governance in the state.
