Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has once again written to the Rivers State House of Assembly, proposing Wednesday, March 19, 2025, as the new date for the presentation of the 2025 state budget.
In a letter addressed to the Speaker of the Assembly, Rt. Hon. Martin Amaewhule, Governor Fubara referred to his earlier attempt to present the budget on March 12, which was unsuccessful due to being denied entry into the Assembly premises. He stated, “Despite prior delivery of a soft copy notice and efforts to submit a hard copy through the clerk, I and my entourage were locked out.”
The governor emphasized that his attempt to present the budget was in compliance with a Supreme Court judgment, which he noted had also mandated the Assembly to perform its functions within constitutional boundaries. He further reminded the Speaker that the House had previously issued a 48-hour ultimatum for the presentation of the budget, even before he was served with a certified true copy of the judgment and enrolled orders.
Governor Fubara reiterated his commitment to governance, despite the ongoing political crisis in the state. He urged all arms of government to “exercise their duties within legal and constitutional frameworks for the good of the people.” He added, “No matter the depth of our differences, we believe the interests of the state and our people should take priority over political conflicts.”
The letter formally notified the Speaker of the governor’s intention to present the budget on March 19 at 11:00 a.m., or at any other time deemed convenient by the House. Governor Fubara concluded by expressing his hope that the Assembly would consider his request favorably.
This development comes amid a back-and-forth between the governor and lawmakers following the Supreme Court judgment ordering the governor to present the 2025 budget to the State Assembly led by Amaewhule.
The situation took a dramatic turn on Wednesday when Governor Fubara arrived at the Rivers State House of Assembly Quarters, only to find the entrance gate locked. The security personnel at the quarters had locked the gates when the governor’s convoy arrived.
The action of the security personnel was justified on the grounds that there had been no official communication between the governor and the Assembly. However, the governor insisted that he had informed the lawmakers of his arrival.
