ACJHR Applauds Governor Fubara’s Response to Supreme Court Ruling in Rivers Crisis
Commends his statesmanlike address and adherence to the rule of law
The African Centre for Justice and Human Rights (ACJHR), a prominent continental human rights organization, has praised Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara for his calm and resolute response to the recent Supreme Court ruling. After thoroughly reviewing the court’s Certified True Copy (CTC), the governor confirmed his commitment to implementing the verdict.
In a statement from the centre, the ACJHR commended Governor Fubara for his poised and mature broadcast to the people of Rivers State on Sunday, highlighting his statesmanship and dedication to the principles of law and democracy.
The group noted that the governor’s decision to respect the rule of law and begin the execution of the Supreme Court’s judgment sets him apart as a leader Nigeria urgently needs at this critical stage of its democratic development.
The ACJHR emphasized that once Governor Fubara’s legal team receives the CTC on March 7, 2025, both the people of Rivers State and all Nigerians would be informed about the next steps, which will prioritize the public’s interests and uphold the Constitution, to which Fubara has pledged allegiance.
The organization also stressed that if all Nigerian leaders demonstrated the same level of commitment to the law and public welfare as Governor Fubara, the country would be a much better place—where the law prevails over personal ambitions and self-interest.
“The African Centre for Justice and Human Rights (ACJHR) acknowledges the thoughtful and dignified broadcast delivered by His Excellency, Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State, and we commend him for his exceptional statesmanship and dedication to the rule of law,” the statement read.
“We stand with the governor during this challenging time, which has revealed his leadership qualities in defending Nigeria’s Constitution despite external pressures and provocations. His composed, respectful approach has earned him the admiration of men and women of conscience everywhere.”
The ACJHR further pointed out that, in contrast to others who may have disregarded the court’s ruling or sought to undermine the law, Fubara chose to uphold the judgment. Even before the CTC was officially received on March 7, 2025, the governor had already instructed the Heads of Local Government Administration to assume control of the state’s 23 local councils until new elections are held by the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission.
The governor also ordered outgoing local government chairpersons to formally hand over their responsibilities by Monday, March 3, 2025.
For context, the Supreme Court’s ruling had invalidated the local government election held on October 5, 2024, and prohibited the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), the Accountant General of the Federation, and other financial agencies from disbursing funds to Rivers State.
Despite disagreeing with the judgment, Governor Fubara expressed his commitment to abiding by the court’s orders, emphasizing that his administration has always acted within the confines of the Constitution, due process, and the rule of law.
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