The Rivers State House of Assembly has accused Governor Siminialayi Fubara of deliberately obstructing the implementation of the Supreme Court ruling,
particularly the directive requiring him to formally re-present the 2025 Appropriation Bill for legislative approval.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the lawmakers called on the public to hold the governor accountable for due process, rather than allowing him to manipulate public sentiment against the Assembly.
Governor’s Alleged Failure to Submit Budget for Reconsideration
Chairman of the House Committee on Information, Enemi Alabo George, questioned Governor Fubara’s claim that he had submitted the budget for reconsideration, challenging him to provide proof of an acknowledged letter.
“Let the governor provide proof of an acknowledged copy of the letter he claims to have sent to the House regarding the budget presentation,” George stated.
The lawmakers insisted that Fubara’s failure to follow due legislative procedure was a direct violation of the Supreme Court’s ruling, which emphasized the necessity of legislative approval for the budget.
Lawmakers Demand Compliance with Rule of Law
The Assembly urged Rivers residents to demand adherence to constitutional processes, warning that the governor’s alleged delays and refusal to engage the legislature were stalling critical governance.
George also criticized Fubara’s handling of the matter, stating that instead of formally submitting the budget, he made an impromptu stop at the House of Assembly Quarters gate, where he allegedly told the press he had sent a letter to the House—an assertion the lawmakers dispute.
“His aides later alleged that they forwarded a letter through WhatsApp to some members of the House, which is unprofessional and embarrassing,” George stated.
Allegations of Intimidation and Suppression
The lawmakers further accused Governor Fubara of frustrating their attempts to work with him, citing instances where their official letters were allegedly rejected at the Government House.
“Our letter was rejected, and House staff who attempted to deliver the mails were brutalized at the Government House gate and sent back. We later resorted to using a courier service, but the governor still ignored our request,” George said.
He also accused the governor of instructing state ministries and agencies not to communicate with the House of Assembly, further worsening the crisis.
Supreme Court’s Warning Against Executive Overreach
Referencing the Supreme Court’s recent judgment, George noted that the court had criticized the breakdown of legislative-executive relations in the state.
“A government cannot be said to exist without one of the three arms that make up the government under the 1999 Constitution. In this case, the executive arm has chosen to collapse the legislature, enabling the governor to rule without legislative oversight,” the judgment stated.
George expressed hope that the Supreme Court’s strong rebuke would push Fubara to respect the principle of separation of powers.
Call for Public Intervention
The Assembly called on the public to pressure Governor Fubara into acting within the law, warning that his alleged ego and defiance could hold the entire state hostage.
“One man should not be allowed to jeopardize the welfare of Rivers people because of personal interests. We must collectively demand that the right thing be done,” George stated.
Legislators’ Hardships and Alleged Attacks
George also detailed the difficulties faced by lawmakers in the ongoing crisis, alleging that they had been subjected to attacks, intimidation, and financial suppression.
- “Our hallowed chamber was burnt down by the governor.”
- “The House of Assembly Complex was demolished, including our personal belongings.”
- “Our Speaker’s residence was attacked.”
- “Our allowances have been withheld for nearly 18 months.”
Despite these challenges, George said lawmakers were willing to set aside personal grievances for the progress of Rivers State.
Concerns Over Public Services and Salaries
The Assembly emphasized the urgency of passing the budget, warning that the ongoing impasse was affecting essential government functions, including:
- Pension payments for retired workers
- Teachers’ salaries in public schools
- Healthcare services in government hospitals
- Funding for public schools and infrastructure
“The governor is playing politics with the lives of Rivers people. Let us all call on him to do the right thing,” George concluded.
Conclusion
The standoff between Governor Fubara and the Rivers State House of Assembly continues to escalate, with lawmakers accusing the governor of constitutional violations, executive overreach, and political suppression. The situation remains tense as residents await the next course of action in the unfolding political crisis.
