The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has issued a call to the Supreme Court to address the recent declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State and the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara. HURIWA asserts that the judiciary must act swiftly to restore public confidence and uphold democratic principles.
Judicial Integrity Under Scrutiny
Emmanuel Onwubiko, HURIWA's National Coordinator, expressed concerns about the judiciary's perceived impartiality, citing past judgments that have raised public skepticism. He referenced the Supreme Court's decision that declared Hope Uzodimma the winner of the Imo State election, despite Uzodimma reportedly finishing fourth, as a case that has fueled doubts about judicial neutrality.
Onwubiko also criticized a recent ruling by Justice Emmanuel Agim, which halted the Central Bank of Nigeria from disbursing allocations to the Rivers State Government. He described the decision as "highly biased and openly partisan," suggesting it contributed to the destabilization of democratic structures in the state and led to Governor Fubara's suspension.
Allegations of Executive Influence
HURIWA has raised alarms over the perceived influence of the executive branch on the judiciary. The association highlighted the public appearance of Justice Agim alongside Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike at a University of Calabar convocation ceremony as indicative of potential bias. HURIWA contends that such associations undermine the judiciary's independence and calls for appropriate sanctions against Justice Agim.
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Condemnation of State of Emergency
The declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State has been met with strong opposition from HURIWA, labeling it an unconstitutional power grab by the federal government. The organization likened the move to military takeovers in neighboring West African countries, asserting that it represents a coup against democracy. HURIWA emphasized that the usurpation of the constitutional powers of the state governor and House of Assembly through the appointment of a military administrator is a direct assault on democratic governance.
Call for Judicial Accountability
In light of these developments, HURIWA is urging the Supreme Court to prioritize justice and fairness in its deliberations concerning the state of emergency in Rivers State. The organization stresses the importance of the judiciary remaining an impartial arbiter, free from executive influence, to maintain public trust and uphold the rule of law.
As the situation unfolds, all eyes are on the Supreme Court to see how it will navigate these complex legal and political challenges to reinforce the integrity of Nigeria's democratic institutions.
