The Rivers State government has described its decision to withdraw its appeal challenging the leadership of the faction of the State House of Assembly led by Martin Amaewhule as a strategic, legally sound decision.
A statement by the State Commissioner for Information and Communications, Warisenibo Joe Johnson on Monday – earlier today, February 10 – added that the withdrawal was not a political concession.
The Commissioner insisted that Victor Oko Jumbo “is still the authentic speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly which nothing can change.”
The government dismissed claims that Gov. Simi Fubara’s legal team withdrew its Supreme Court appeal as a concession or acceptance of any unfavorable court ruling.
The state government clarified that the withdrawal was a procedural decision made in light of evolving circumstances rather than a defeat, “contrary to misleading narratives being circulated by the FCT Minister’s aide, Lere Olayinka.”
The government explained that the appeal was withdrawn in line with Order 11, Rule 14 of the Supreme Court Rules, which allows for such action when a case has been overtaken by events.
Given that the Rivers state budget and governance priorities have significantly progressed into 2025, the legal team deemed further litigation unnecessary.
The state government also criticized the spread of false information, warning against attempts to distort legal decisions for political gains.
The government urged the public to disregard misinformation and instead focus on the tangible progress being recorded under Governor Fubara’s leadership.
He said: “The 2024 budget was spent on the 31st December of 2024 fiscal year. The appeal is of no useful purpose.
“The only reasonable thing left to do is to withdraw the appeal and have it dismissed.
“The Supreme Court is a very busy court. It will be most unwise to belabour the Honourable Court with academic appeals without any practical or utilitarian value.
“That is the appeal that the urchins are celebrating.
“There is no Supreme Court judgment against Gov. Fubara, ignore the outdated political propaganda by some desperate politicians.
“Supreme Court ruled on the Appeal over the 2024 budget voluntarily withdrawn by Gov. Fubara because the 2024 budget cycle has ended and there is no need wasting time discussing a budget that has been fully spent and implemented.
“Rt Hon Victor Oko Jumbo is still the authentic speaker and nothing can change that.”
