CISLAC Raises Alarm Over Court Ruling Blocking Rivers State Allocations, Warns Of Democratic Risks
The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) has voiced serious concern over a recent Federal High Court judgment halting the release of monthly allocations to Rivers State, a decision that restricts the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and other financial institutions from disbursing funds to the state government.
In a statement signed by CISLAC Executive Director, Comrade Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, the organization cautioned that such judicial actions could threaten Nigeria’s democratic stability, economic security, and the public’s faith in the justice system.
“It is deeply troubling that some judicial decisions appear to benefit a select few, disregarding the rule of law and undermining the foundational principles of Nigeria’s democracy,” Rafsanjani remarked. “Nigeria’s states are integral to our constitutional structure, led by elected officials accountable for managing resources for citizens’ welfare. Blocking these allocations jeopardizes this autonomy and sets a risky precedent that could destabilize peaceful regions.”
Rafsanjani highlighted mounting concerns over the perceived erosion of judicial integrity, referencing recent rulings in both Kano and Rivers states as potential indicators of a shift away from established standards.
“Our judiciary was once a bastion of integrity, with rulings made cautiously and in service to the public good. Recent developments, however, threaten to undermine public trust, repel investment, and challenge our judicial credibility,” Rafsanjani continued.
The statement underscored the potential global repercussions of such actions, noting, “International accountability bodies like Transparency International and the World Justice Project evaluate the integrity of judicial systems worldwide. Nigeria’s position on the Transparency Perception Index reflects our need for transparency in governance. Blocking constitutional allocations harms our global reputation and deters potential investors who may lack confidence in our judiciary.”
CISLAC called on the Chief Justice of Nigeria to uphold judicial standards, urging caution among judges in rulings that might inadvertently disrupt Nigeria’s democratic and economic fabric.
“CISLAC encourages the judiciary to stay true to democratic values, making decisions that uphold the constitution and respect the Nigerian people’s will, thereby preserving stability at both state and national levels,” the statement read.
In closing, CISLAC urged the judiciary, the executive branch, and all stakeholders to prioritize Nigerians’ welfare and uphold democratic principles amid these turbulent times, affirming that “the nation’s stability, unity, and advancement should remain paramount.”
