CISLAC Raises Alarm Over Rivers State Allocation Freeze, Warns of Risks to Nigerian Democracy
Maryam Aminu
In response to the Federal High Court’s recent order halting monthly allocations to Rivers State, the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC), has sounded a serious warning, expressing concern that this decision could destabilize Nigeria’s democracy and economic stability.
A statement by CISLAC’s Executive Director, Comrade Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, highlights the potential risks of judicial decisions that limit state financial autonomy.
“This ruling is deeply troubling. When judicial decisions appear to serve the interests of a few, they undermine public trust in the judiciary and challenge Nigeria’s commitment to democracy. Our states are constitutionally empowered to govern independently, and blocking allocations threatens this autonomy while setting a precedent that could disrupt peace and stability in other regions.” He noted
CISLAC Boss further warned about the potential economic fallout, citing recent rulings in states like Kano and Rivers that he believes could damage investor confidence in Nigeria.
“Our judiciary once held an unwavering commitment to fairness. But as concerning patterns emerge, public confidence erodes, foreign investment becomes less certain, and the ripple effects on our economy are felt nationwide,” he stated.
He disclosed that statement draws further attention to Nigeria’s global reputation, referencing international indices such as the Transparency International Corruption Perception Index.
“The global community watches our judiciary closely,” Rafsanjani said. “Actions that interfere with constitutional processes, like state allocations, have serious implications for Nigeria’s credibility on the international stage, as well as for potential investors seeking assurance of stable governance.”
Rafsanjani called on the Chief Justice of Nigeria to take a strong stand in preserving judicial impartiality.
“We urge the judiciary to maintain a commitment to democracy and uphold the integrity of the judicial process. Decisions should be rooted in constitutional principles and reflect the will of the Nigerian people.”
As Nigeria faces challenges, CISLAC’s statement calls for unity across all branches of government and stakeholders, advocating for decisions that prioritize national stability and the well-being of citizens. “At this critical juncture, we need to put the welfare of Nigerians above all else. Protecting democratic values and promoting stability must be our highest priorities.”
