The Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Accountant-General of the Federation to halt monthly allocations to the Rivers State Government. The decision, which also restricts Zenith Bank and Access Bank from processing state funds, follows alleged constitutional violations in the presentation and approval of the 2024 budget.
Justice Joyce Abdulmalik issued the ruling, stating that Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s submission of the 2024 budget to a four-member House of Assembly violated constitutional procedures, labeling the monthly disbursements under this budget as “a constitutional somersault.” Justice Abdulmalik emphasized that the implementation of this budget constitutes a severe breach of the 1999 Constitution, which Fubara is bound to uphold.
The ruling blocks Rivers State from accessing funds from the Consolidated Revenue and Federation Account until these budgetary issues are resolved, underscoring the court’s insistence on adherence to constitutional standards in the management of public funds.
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