Governor Fubara,
Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State, Tony Okocha, has blamed the judiciary for the prolonged political crisis in the state, accusing some judges of complicating political disputes rather than resolving them.
Speaking at a press briefing in Port Harcourt, Okocha alleged that certain judges in Rivers State have ignored established judicial procedures, worsening the political tension.
He argued that lower courts should step aside when cases are pending in superior courts but lamented that the reverse appears to be happening in the state.
“The judiciary is fueling the political crisis in Rivers. Despite existing rulings from higher courts, some judges in the state continue to issue conflicting judgments, especially regarding the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) congresses,” Okocha stated.
The controversy stems from multiple court rulings over the PDP congresses.
While a Federal High Court in Abuja, presided over by Justice Peter Lifu, permitted the congresses on July 23, 2024, a Rivers State High Court, led by Justice Stephen Jumbo, nullified them on January 13, 2025.
Beyond the judicial battles, Okocha also criticized Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s administration, claiming that governance has stagnated despite the state’s substantial revenue from federal allocations and internally generated funds.
He scored the administration poorly in agriculture, education, and housing, alleging a lack of clear policies and oversight.
In response, the Rivers State Commissioner for Information, Joseph Johnson, dismissed Okocha’s remarks, asserting that he is no longer recognized as APC chairman following a court ruling affirming Emeka Bekee as the rightful party leader.
Johnson defended the Fubara-led government, stating that significant progress is being made in key sectors, particularly education, health, and agriculture.
He revealed that 135 primary healthcare centers are undergoing rehabilitation and assured that more development projects would be commissioned by March 2025.
“The government is focused on delivering results, and Rivers people can see the impact,” Johnson added.
