Ex-Rivers Deputy Speaker Sues FG Over Funds To Sole Administrator, Cites Constitutional Violations

Mariam Lawal6 hours ago

0 1 minute read

Former Deputy Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Marshall Stanley-Uwom, has dragged the Federal Government to court.
He seeks to stop the release of local government funds to the state’s Sole Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (Rtd).

In the suit filed at the Federal High Court, Abuja, Stanley-Uwom cited Section 7(1) of the 1999 Constitution.
He argued that appointing caretaker officials to run local councils is unconstitutional and violates a recent Supreme Court ruling.

He asked the court to declare the appointments invalid and unconstitutional.
He also seeks an order asking Ibas to vacate office and restore Governor Siminalayi Fubara to his elected position.

President Tinubu, Others Named in Landmark Case

Stanley-Uwom named President Bola Tinubu as the first defendant in the suit marked FHC/ABJ/CS/797/2025.
Other defendants include the National Assembly, CBN, Accountant General, and Federation Account Allocation Committee.

Four Key Constitutional Questions Raised

Through his lead counsel, Mr. Sylvester I. Evbuomwan, Stanley-Uwom posed four constitutional questions for the court to decide.
One question asks whether Tinubu’s emergency declaration stands without a two-thirds majority approval by the National Assembly.

Another asks whether the Federation Account can legally release funds to Ibas’ unelected caretaker appointees.

Affidavit Highlights Alleged Illegal Actions

Stanley-Uwom, in a sworn affidavit, described himself as a major political stakeholder in Rivers State.
He revealed that Ibas dismissed elected local government officials after assuming office on March 19, 2025.

He further accused Ibas of removing RSIEC officials without following due process.
The affidavit also states that Ibas has received federal and local funds without parliamentary appropriation.

Supreme Court Ruling Supports Local Autonomy

Stanley-Uwom referenced the Supreme Court’s 2024 decision in AG Federation v. AG Abia State.
The judgment upheld local government autonomy and rejected the use of caretaker committees.

He insists that granting his reliefs would uphold the Constitution and serve justice.

Awaiting Court Hearing Date

As of now, the court has not fixed a date for the hearing.
Observers say the case could redefine the limits of presidential and caretaker powers in state governance.

Call to Action:
Legal professionals, civil society, and citizens should monitor this case, which tests constitutional boundaries and defends democratic institutions.