Ohanaeze Ndigbo: Supreme Court verdict authenticates Amaewhule - led Assembly

The Ohanaeze Ndigbo worldwide, has applauded the Supreme Court verdict of Monday February 10 as it affects case number SC/ CV/1071/2024, saying it authenticates the Rt. Hon. Martin Chike Amaewhule led Rivers State House of Assembly.

The apex Igbo socio - cultural body, made the declaration in an electronic statement sent to Fresh Angle International this evening, Tuesday February 11.

The statement, which was credited to the Deputy President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, asserted : "The Apex Igbo Sociocultural Organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, solemnly addresses the recent Supreme Court verdict that decisively dismissed the suit filed by Rivers State Governor Siminialayi Fubara against the Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Martin Chike Amaewhule, and 26 other lawmakers. This landmark judgment emerges not merely as a legal ruling but as a monumental affirmation of democratic principles and the rule of law.

"The Supreme Court's ruling in case number SC/CV/1071/2024, delivered on February 10, 2025, serves as a resounding reminder of the enduring authority and authenticity of the Amaewhule-led Assembly. Consequently, we unequivocally urge Governor Fubara to recalibrate his approach and pursue dialogue, reconciliation, and mutual respect with the State House of Assembly. To persist in his current trajectory of litigation, defiance, and discord is to court an ignominious end to his administration, potentially before the 2027 electoral cycle.

"It is with deep concern that we observe the influence of misguided political advisers—a cadre of opportunistic hawks—whose counsel has led Governor Fubara astray. These individuals have undoubtedly contributed to his perilous disregard for the heartfelt counsel of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. During a pivotal peace meeting with various political factions in Rivers State, President Tinubu's prudent appeal for harmony and collaboration was met with an unfortunate lack of compliance. Instead of promoting unity by submitting the 2024 Budget Appropriation Bill and working alongside Rt. Hon. Amaewhule, Governor Fubara opted for courtroom battles, undermining his own credibility and governance.

"The Supreme Court has now made it abundantly clear: Rt. Hon. Amaewhule remains the legitimate Speaker of the House, and any attempts to alter this reality through litigation are not only misguided but are also jeopardizing the foundational integrity of our democracy. Governor Fubara’s refusal to recognize this authoritative ruling could have catastrophic consequences, exacerbating his already precarious position as a leader.

"We are compelled to lacerate through the veneer of political ambition that has seemingly clouded the governor’s judgment. His administration has committed numerous constitutional infractions and impeachable offenses, aligning itself with questionable actors who have contravened the 1999 Constitution. By utilizing figures such as Oko Jumbo and other lawmakers to perpetrate these illegalities, Governor Fubara has cast a shadow upon the legitimate governance of Rivers State.

"Ohanaeze Ndigbo wishes to convey, in the strongest possible terms, that the time for introspection is swiftly running out for Governor Siminialayi Fubara. Should he disregard the counsel of the Apex Igbo Sociocultural Organization and fail to engage in meaningful negotiations with Rt. Hon. Amaewhule and the Assembly, he will inevitably face the specter of legal and political turmoil—a scenario that could culminate in his being remembered as the governor with the most transient tenure in Rivers State history.

"This Supreme Court verdict stands as an unequivocal warning—it is a moment that must be met with serious thought and decisive action. No coalition of political adversaries will redeem Governor Fubara when the realities of his choices unfold before him. As the consequences of his stubbornness crystallize, he risks not only his political future but also an undignified exit from the annals of Rivers State governance.

" Ohanaeze Ndigbo firmly believes that only through a commitment to collaboration, peace, and foresight can the governor navigate the choppy waters of his current predicament. We call upon him to engage with Rt. Hon. Martin Chike Amaewhule, cherish the principles of democracy, and serve the best interests of the people of Rivers State before it is too late."

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