ABUJA: The Court of Appeal in Abuja on Friday overturned a Federal High Court ruling that sought to block Rivers State’s statutory allocation from the federation purse.
In his ruling, Justice Hamma Barka stated that the Federal High Court lacked jurisdiction to hear the case, emphasizing that listing federal agencies does not grant the court unrestricted jurisdiction. He clarified that matters involving state revenue should not be handled by the Federal High Court.
The court upheld the argument presented by Rivers State Government’s counsel, Chris Uche (SAN), that issues regarding the state’s revenue fall outside the Federal High Court’s jurisdiction.
The opposition lawmakers coalition praised the ruling, calling it a victory for constitutional democracy and the judiciary’s integrity. They hailed the decision as a win for the rule of law, federalism, and a decisive step against attempts to undermine the judiciary.
Pro-democracy groups, including Human Rights Writers Association (HURIWA), Joint Action for Democracy, and Lawyers in Defence of Democracy, also lauded the judgment, calling it historic in preserving federalism and constitutional democracy.
The opposition lawmakers coalition, through spokesperson Ikenga Ugochinyere, expressed relief that the Appeal Court had prevented a potential constitutional crisis in Rivers State. They also highlighted ongoing legal challenges regarding illegal defections within the state’s House of Assembly and emphasized that until the Supreme Court resolves this issue, the remaining members of the Assembly retain authority.
The coalition called the Appeal Court’s decision a victory for the rule of law and federalism, stressing the importance of respecting established judicial principles. They also condemned those attempting to create chaos for political gain.
