Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate from the 2023 elections, has made a significant appeal regarding a recent court ruling affecting Rivers State. The Federal High Court in Abuja, presided over by Justice Joyce Abdulmalik, ruled that Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s submission of the 2024 budget was unconstitutional, which led to a halt in the state’s federal allocations.
Obi expressed deep concern over the judgment’s potential impact on the citizens of Rivers State, emphasizing that it could exacerbate existing hardships faced by the population, including pensioners, health workers, teachers, and civil servants. He called for a collective effort from Nigerians to advocate for the immediate reversal of the court’s decision, stressing the need for leaders to prioritize the well-being of vulnerable groups in society.
In his post on X, Obi stated his commitment to focusing on issues that affect the masses rather than engaging in personal disputes or name-calling. He urged that decisions made by leaders across all branches of government should consider the consequences on the less privileged, as these choices shape the future of Nigeria. He highlighted the importance of building a foundation for a more equitable society that prioritizes the welfare of all citizens.
Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in the 2023 election, has called on Nigerians to advocate for the immediate reversal of a recent Federal High Court judgment that ordered the seizure of statutory allocations to the Rivers State Government. This judgment, delivered by Justice Joyce Abdulmalik, found that Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s presentation of the 2024 budget was unconstitutional and criticized the ongoing receipt and use of federal allocations by the state.
In a statement on X (formerly Twitter), Obi expressed concern that this decision could exacerbate the already dire circumstances facing the citizens of Rivers State, potentially leading to greater distress and suffering among the populace. He emphasized that his political focus has always been on the issues affecting the poor and vulnerable in Nigeria, and he believes this judgment requires urgent attention.
Obi highlighted the struggles of pensioners, health workers, teachers, and civil servants in Rivers State, urging leaders across all branches of government to prioritize the well-being of the less privileged. He called for collective action to ensure that decisions made today contribute to a better future for all Nigerians, emphasizing the need for compassion and support for those facing hardships.