FG Stops FAAC Allocation to Rivers State Amid Political Crisis.
The Federal Government has suspended the October Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) revenue payment to Rivers State following a court order amidst the ongoing political conflict between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, who now serves as the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory.
Bawa Mokwa, the spokesperson for the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation (OAGF), confirmed the suspension, stating that the government is adhering to a Federal High Court ruling barring the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the federal government from disbursing funds to Rivers State.
Court Directive and Compliance
The Federal High Court ruling, delivered by Justice Joyce Abdulmalik, ordered the Rivers State government to re-present its 2024 budget to the faction of the State House of Assembly led by Martin Amaewhule.
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This faction, reportedly backed by Wike, filed the originating summons, claiming the current executive failed to comply with legal procedures.
The court also prohibited the CBN, Accountant-General of the Federation, and several banks from granting Governor Fubara access to state funds until compliance with the court’s directives.
Context of the Crisis
The fallout between Governor Fubara and former Governor Wike has fueled a political standoff, leading to divisions within the Rivers State Assembly. The Amaewhule-led faction has been at odds with Fubara over governance issues, culminating in the current legal and financial impasse.
Current Status
While no state has received FAAC allocations for October yet, Mokwa clarified that Rivers State’s disbursement will remain on hold in compliance with the court’s directive. He emphasized that the OAGF would continue to follow due diligence unless there is a contrary court order.
