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Okocha Blames Judiciary for Political Crisis in Rivers, Accuses Fubara of Ignoring Court Orders

The Tony Okocha-led All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State has accused the judiciary of exacerbating the ongoing political crisis, claiming judicial interference has worsened tensions.

Speaking to journalists in Port Harcourt on Monday, Okocha criticized Rivers judges for handling political cases outside judicial hierarchy, stating that once a matter reaches a superior court, lower courts should refrain from issuing conflicting rulings. He specifically pointed to the issue of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) congresses, where conflicting court orders have fueled the crisis.

Okocha also accused Governor Siminalayi Fubara of disregarding court rulings, asserting that “The law must be obeyed because if there’s no law, society is headed for anarchy and chaos.”

The crisis stems from conflicting rulings regarding the PDP congresses. While a Federal High Court in Abuja, led by Justice Peter Lifu, permitted the congresses on July 23, 2024, the Rivers State High Court, under Justice Stephen Jumbo, nullified them on January 13, 2025.

Beyond the judiciary, Okocha criticized Fubara’s administration, claiming that despite substantial federal allocations and internally generated revenue, the state government has failed to deliver in key sectors. He gave Fubara a zero in agriculture, education, and housing, accusing the state of lacking clear policies and proper monitoring.

In response, Rivers Commissioner for Information and Communication, Joseph Johnson, dismissed Okocha’s claims, stating that Okocha is no longer recognized as the APC chairman in the state following a court ruling that affirmed Emeka Bekee’s position. Johnson urged the public to disregard Okocha’s comments, stressing that the state government remains focused on development.

“The state government has three broad approaches geared towards making uncommon impacts: education, health, and agriculture. We are doing very well,” Johnson said, highlighting the rehabilitation of 135 primary healthcare centers as part of the state’s achievements.

He also noted that Rivers State plans another round of project commissioning in March, showcasing advancements in agriculture, infrastructure, and other sectors.

Okocha also criticized former Minister of Transportation, Chibuike Amaechi, over his recent comments suggesting that President Bola Tinubu would not willingly relinquish power, calling the remarks inciteful and capable of causing political unrest. Okocha further accused Amaechi of failing to secure meaningful federal projects for the South-South region during his tenure.

However, Okocha commended President Tinubu for appointing two Rivers indigenes—Senator Magnus Abe as Chairman of the Great Green Wall and Victor Giadom as Chairman of the Nigerian Institute of Educational Planning. He also congratulated Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, on his recent award.

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