Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has officially notified the State House of Assembly of his intention to re-present the 2025 Appropriation Bill for consideration and approval.
In a letter dated March 13, 2025, and addressed to Speaker Martin Amaewhule, Fubara expressed his willingness to present the budget on Wednesday, March 19, 2025, or any other date in March that the Assembly deems appropriate.
Compliance with Supreme Court Ruling
The governor emphasized that his decision aligns with a recent Supreme Court judgment and responds to the lawmakers’ request for him to formally present the budget.
He recalled a previous attempt to submit the budget at the Assembly Quarters, where the lawmakers were temporarily convening. However, he and his entourage were denied entry into the premises, preventing the budget presentation.
Governor Fubara’s Letter to the Assembly
Fubara’s letter outlined the circumstances leading to this new request, stating:
“You may recall my failed visit to the Rivers State House of Assembly on Wednesday, March 12, 2025, for the presentation of the 2025 Rivers State Budget in compliance with the Supreme Court’s judgment.
As you know, the planned presentation could not take place because my entourage and I were locked out at the gate and denied entry into the premises, despite prior notice and a soft copy of the budget being sent to you after the Clerk refused to accept the hard copy from us.”
The governor further pointed out that before this incident, the Assembly had issued a 48-hour ultimatum for him to present the budget, despite the fact that his administration had not yet been served the certified true copy of the Supreme Court judgment and accompanying orders.
“We were simply complying with both the order of the Supreme Court and the request of the Rivers State House of Assembly when we came to present the budget on March 12, 2025.”
Call for Cooperation and Governance Stability
Governor Fubara reaffirmed his commitment to upholding constitutional governance and ensuring that all arms of government operate within their legal mandates.
“The Supreme Court has directed that all arms of government must exercise their powers and perform their duties in accordance with the Constitution and the laws of our country. This is necessary to resolve the ongoing impasse and advance the progress of our state and the well-being of our people.”
Acknowledging the political tensions in the state, he urged lawmakers to prioritize governance and the welfare of Rivers residents over political disputes.
“No matter the depth of our differences, the interests of the state and our people should take precedence over political conflicts.”
Next Steps for Budget Presentation
Concluding his letter, Governor Fubara formally requested the Assembly to set a date for the presentation, proposing March 19, 2025, at 11:00 a.m., but remaining open to any other convenient date within the month.
He expressed appreciation for the Assembly’s consideration and reaffirmed his respect for the legislative body.
With this latest development, all eyes will be on the Rivers State House of Assembly to determine how they respond to the governor’s request and whether the budget presentation will proceed without further complications.
