News
Court quashes Fubara’s plea to stop fund allocation lawsuit against Rivers LGs
The Federal High Court in Abuja has rejected a plea from the Rivers State Government, led by Governor Siminalayi Fubara, to pause proceedings in an ongoing lawsuit challenging fund allocations to Local Government Areas (LGAs) in Rivers State.
This latest development adds to the state’s escalating political crisis, marked by deep divisions within its legislature.
The court, presided over by Justice Joyce Abdulmalik, dismissed the stay application filed by Rivers State’s legal representative, Gordy Uche (SAN), labelling it “frivolous, vexatious, unwarranted, and mischievous.
The case (CA/ABJ/CV/1197/2024) was brought by a faction of the Rivers State House of Assembly, led by Martin Amaewhule, an ally of former Governor Nyesom Wike. Meanwhile, another faction, supportive of Governor Fubara, is led by Victor Oko-Jumbo.
Previously, the Amaewhule faction sought an injunction to prevent the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), commercial banks, and the Attorney General of the Federation from processing any financial directives issued by Governor Fubara. They claimed this action would prevent misuse of state resources.
On August 6, a faction led by Oko-Jumbo submitted a notice of change of counsel, asserting that Amaewhule’s faction was unauthorised to file the lawsuit after his seat was declared vacant in December 2023 due to defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC). The court dismissed this application, upholding Amaewhule’s status as the legitimate plaintiff.
During Friday’s hearing, Justice Abdulmalik denied an adjournment request from the defence team, including prominent lawyer Femi Falana, who cited a need to review new documents that had only been provided moments before the session.
The Rivers State Government initially contested holding the hearing in Abuja, a request which the court denied. In response, the state filed an appeal (CA/ABJ/CV/1197/2024) and sought to delay the High Court proceedings pending the outcome of this appeal, a request which has now also been denied.
By Gloria Ikibah
As part of the annual 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, the House of Representatives is set to lead a historic march on Monday, November 25, 2024, in a bold effort to tackle gender-based violence (GBV) in the country.
The march, which begins at 8:00 AM, will see over 1,000 participants, including lawmakers and members of the public walk from the National Assembly to the Nigeria Police Force Headquarters in Abuja. The event will culminate in the submission of a petition to the Inspector General of Police, demanding decisive action against GBV and greater protection for vulnerable groups.
Speaking about the initiative, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, PhD., GCON, said, “This march and the activities that follow are not mere gestures but a reflection of our determination to confront gender-based violence head-on. We are committed to building a society where justice, equality, and safety prevail for all Nigerians.”
In a statement by the House Spokesperson, Rep. Akin Rotimi on Saturday in Abuja, he said, “The 10th House of Representatives has reaffirmed its commitment to systemic reforms, collaboration, and accountability in the fight against gender-based violence.
“In addition to the march, the House has outlined key activities in alignment with its Legislative Agenda (2023–2027) to sustain awareness and action throughout the campaign period.
“Sash Demonstration Ceremony – Tuesday, November 26, 2024
“Convergence of State Assembly Speakers – Monday, December 9, 2024. A strategic meeting at the Transcorp Hilton, Abuja, will bring together Speakers of State Houses of Assembly to discuss legislative measures for combating GBV nationwide.
“National Citizens’ Summit and GBV Conference 2024 – Tuesday, December 10, 2024. The summit will focus on constitutional reforms and securing endorsements for gender equality initiatives led by the House of Representatives”.
Naijablitznews.com reports that this year’s 16 Days of Activism aims to galvanise nationwide efforts and inspire collective action to protect human rights, ensure justice, and create a safer, more equitable Nigeria.
President Bola Tinubu has departed Galeao Air force Basa (SBGL) Airport, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on Saturday, for Abuja after attending the 19th G20 Leaders Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
The President is due to arrive at the Presidential Wing of Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, at 10.00 p.m. (Nigerian time).
President Tinubu had attended the G20 Leaders summit where he endorsed the global alliance against hunger and poverty, which he said was pivotal.
The President also held bilateral talks with Kristalina Georgieva, the Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), who commended his administration’s economic reforms and their positive indicators.
He also presided over the signing of a 2.5 billion dollar Letter of Intent between the Nigerian government and the JBS S.A., a Brazilian company and one of the top three largest meat processing companies in the World.
The president was accompanied in the trip by senior government officials including the minister of foreign affairs yusuf Tuggar, the national security adviser, Nuhu RIBADU and many others.
HoR to Lead March, Launch Initiatives Against Gender-Based Violence
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