The Rivers State Government has responded to the Supreme Court’s judgment, stating that Governor Siminalayi Fubara remains committed to making decisions that prioritize the welfare and progress of the state and its residents.
In an official statement released shortly after the ruling, the state’s Commissioner for Information and Communications, Warisenibo Joe Johnson, noted that the government was yet to receive full details of the judgment.
He assured that the administration would carefully evaluate the situation before deciding on the next steps, urging residents to remain calm.
Johnson further clarified that the key issue of the defection of Speaker Martins Amaewhule and 26 other lawmakers remains pending before the Federal High Court and was not part of the Supreme Court case.
The statement said: “We have taken note of reports in the media regarding the recent judgment of the Supreme Court concerning the funds of Rivers State and the administration of local governments in the state.
“At this time, we are awaiting a detailed briefing on the implications of the judgment. We will carefully evaluate the situation and determine the next steps to take in the best interest of Rivers State and its people.
“Though we have not gotten the details of the judgment from our legal team, we enjoin Rivers people to remain calm, law abiding and go about our legitimate businesses as we seek clarity on the judgment.
“We believe that the determination of the main issue of defection of the 27 lawmakers is a matter not before the Supreme Court as it is pending at the Federal High Court in Port Harcourt.
“Since the issue of defection wasn’t on the table before the learned Justices, in their eyes, Amaewhule and the 26 others are still operating as lawmakers until that matter of defection comes before them.
“We assure you that we remain committed to upholding our mandate to protect the best interest and the rule of law in all matters affecting our dear state”.
