The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) has condemned a recent ruling by a Federal High Court that restricts the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and other financial institutions from disbursing monthly allocations to the Rivers State Government. CISLAC described the ruling as a serious threat to democracy.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, CISLAC’s Executive Director, Comrade Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, expressed concern that such judicial decisions erode 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 Nigeria’s states are essential components of the constitutional framework, led by elected governors responsible for managing resources for their citizens’ benefit. He argued that blocking allocations undermines this autonomy and sets a dangerous precedent, risking destabilization in regions currently at peace.
Rafsanjani raised alarm over a perceived compromise in the integrity of the judiciary, citing recent rulings in Kano and Rivers as indicators of a troubling trend that could erode public trust, deter investment, and challenge Nigeria’s judicial framework.
He further highlighted the importance of the judiciary’s reputation, noting how rankings by organizations such as Transparency International and the World Justice Project influence Nigeria’s standing internationally. “Actions that disrupt constitutional allocations will only harm our global standing and drive away potential investors who lack confidence in the judicial system,” he warned.
CISLAC also called upon the Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN) to uphold judicial standards and advise judges against making destabilizing decisions.
“CISLAC urges the judiciary to hold firm to democratic values, ensuring that decisions respect the constitution and reflect the will of Nigerians, thereby safeguarding both state and national stability. Our nation’s stability, unity, and progress must remain at the forefront of governance efforts,” Rafsanjani concluded.