The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) has voiced significant concern regarding a recent ruling by the Federal High Court that restricts the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and other financial institutions from disbursing monthly allocations to the Rivers State Government.
In a statement issued by CISLAC’s Executive Director, Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, the organization warned that such judicial decisions threaten Nigeria’s democracy, economic stability, and public confidence in the judicial system.
“It is deeply troubling that certain judicial rulings appear to serve the interests of a select few, undermining the rule of law and the foundational tenets of Nigeria’s democracy,” Rafsanjani stated. He emphasized that states are crucial components of Nigeria’s constitutional framework, led by elected governors responsible for managing resources for their citizens. Blocking allocations undermines this autonomy, setting a dangerous precedent that could destabilize peaceful regions.
Rafsanjani also highlighted a growing perception that some judicial actors are compromising the integrity of Nigeria’s judiciary. “In the past, positions in our judiciary were held with integrity, and reckless rulings were unthinkable. However, recent events in Kano and Rivers suggest a troubling trend that risks eroding public trust, discouraging investment, and further challenging our judicial processes.”
The statement underscored the importance of international accountability, noting that organizations such as Transparency International and the World Justice Project rank judicial systems globally. “Nigeria’s position on the Transparency Perception Index reflects our need for transparent governance. Disruptions to constitutional allocations will harm our global standing and deter potential investors who lack confidence in the judicial system.”
CISLAC urged the Chief Justice of Nigeria to take decisive action to maintain judicial standards and to caution judges against rulings that could destabilize Nigeria’s democracy or economic structure.
“CISLAC calls on the judiciary to uphold democratic values, ensuring decisions respect the constitution and reflect the will of Nigerians, safeguarding both state and national stability,” the statement concluded.
“In these challenging times, we urge the judiciary, the executive, and all stakeholders to prioritize the welfare of Nigerians above all other considerations. Our nation’s stability, unity, and progress must remain at the forefront of governance efforts.”
