Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has formally 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. This comes after an earlier attempt to present the budget on March 12 was thwarted when the governor was denied entry into the Assembly premises.
In a letter addressed to the Speaker of the Assembly, Rt. Hon. Martin Amaewhule, Governor Fubara recounted the events of March 12, noting that despite prior delivery of a soft copy notice and efforts to submit a hard copy through the clerk, he and his entourage were locked out. The governor emphasized that his attempt to present the budget was in compliance with a Supreme Court judgment, which also mandated the Assembly to operate within constitutional boundaries.
Governor Fubara reminded the Speaker that the House had previously issued a 48-hour ultimatum for the budget presentation, even before he was served with a certified true copy of the judgment and enrolled orders. He reaffirmed his commitment to governance despite the ongoing political crisis in the state, urging all arms of government to exercise their duties within legal and constitutional frameworks for the good of the people.
“No matter the depth of our differences, we believe the interests of the state and our people should take priority over political conflicts,” the governor stated in the letter. He formally notified the Speaker of his intention to present the budget on March 19 at 11:00 a.m. or at any other time deemed convenient by the House, expressing hope that the Assembly would consider his request favorably.
The situation took a dramatic turn earlier when Governor Fubara arrived at the Rivers State House of Assembly Quarters but was met with locked gates. Security personnel at the quarters reportedly locked the gates, citing a lack of official communication between the governor and the Assembly. However, the governor maintained that he had informed the lawmakers of his visit.
Appeal for Peace and Progress
Governor Fubara has repeatedly called for peace and unity in the state, urging all parties to prioritize the interests of Rivers people. During the commissioning of projects in the Okrika Local Government Area, the governor appealed to members of the Assembly and other political actors to embrace peace and resolve the ongoing impasse.
“It is important at this stage that we all embrace peace,” Fubara said. “The Supreme Court has made its judgment, and we don’t have any option but to abide by it. We are appealing to other parties: consider the interest of Rivers State. The only thing we owe this state is peace and development.”
The governor reiterated his commitment to governing effectively, stressing that peace is essential for the progress of the state. “I am open any day, any time for total peace in our state because if I have to govern well, there is the need for peace,” he added.
As the political tension in Rivers State continues, all eyes are on the Assembly’s response to Governor Fubara’s latest proposal. The governor’s appeal for unity and adherence to the rule of law underscores his determination to steer the state toward stability and development.
