Peter Obi Speaks Out: 'I Hold No Malice, But The Rule Of Law Must Be Upheld'

Peter Obi Takes a Stand: Rivers State Funds Controversy

Let me paint you a picture. In the ever-evolving political landscape of Nigeria, Peter Obi, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Labour Party (LP), has stepped into the spotlight once again. This time, he's shedding light on a situation that has many people scratching their heads. It revolves around the federal government's decision to release funds to Ibok-Ete Ibas, the newly appointed Sole Administrator of Rivers State. But here's the twist: this move directly contradicts a recent Supreme Court ruling.

Supreme Court's Clear Directive Ignored?

Now, let's rewind a bit. The Supreme Court, in its wisdom, had issued a clear directive to the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN). The order was simple: don't release funds to the Rivers State Government until a budget is presented before the State House of Assembly. This was meant to ensure transparency and accountability in the state's financial dealings. But despite this directive, the federal government went ahead and handed over the funds to Ibas after Governor Siminalayi Fubara was suspended. Confusing, right?

Peter Obi wasn't about to stay silent on this issue. On Monday, he took to social media to voice his concerns. In his post, he pointed out that releasing funds to the Administrator is a blatant disregard for the Supreme Court's order. He emphasized that this move doesn't just undermine the rule of law but also shakes the very foundation of our democratic principles.

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A Nation at a Crossroads

Listen closely, because Peter Obi has a lot to say about this. "What's happening in our country right now, particularly regarding Rivers State, is a complete deviation from our Constitution," he wrote. "It's something that every thinking person should stand against." He went on to describe the situation as a brazen act of disobedience to the rule of law and our democratic ideals.

Obi elaborated, "What we're witnessing in Rivers State is more than just a legal issue. It's a direct challenge to the authority of the Supreme Court, the highest judicial body in our land. The Supreme Court clearly stated that the CBN and the Accountant-General of the Federation (AGF) should not release funds until a properly constituted House of Assembly approves a valid budget. Yet, we see this order being blatantly ignored. It raises questions about the integrity and intentions behind these actions."

Upholding the Rule of Law

Obi didn't stop there. He stressed that those involved in this decision are setting a dangerous precedent. "The CBN and AGF are institutions that are supposed to uphold the law," he said. "They shouldn't be complicit in undermining the judiciary. We can't build a nation where those who swore to uphold the Constitution and obey the law are doing the exact opposite." He reminded everyone that this isn't just about Rivers State—it's about safeguarding the fabric of our democracy and our national existence.

Obi concluded with a powerful message: "A country cannot thrive when the rule of law is trampled upon, when the separation of powers is disregarded, and when judicial decisions are treated as mere suggestions. If we continue down this path, we're jeopardizing the future of our democracy. It's time for us to choose the right path—to respect the law and uphold the principles that unite us as a nation."

In a world where politics can often feel distant and detached, Peter Obi's words serve as a reminder that we all have a stake in upholding justice and fairness. His voice is one that calls for accountability and integrity, reminding us that the strength of a nation lies in its commitment to the rule of law.