Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara announced on Wednesday that his administration is already preparing the 2025 budget, dismissing demands from the Martin Amaewhule-led faction of the state House of Assembly to re-present the 2024 budget.
The governor declared that the seats of lawmakers who defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) remain vacant.
Advertorial
During a solidarity visit from leaders, stakeholders, and youth of Etche and Omuma Local Government Areas, Governor Fubara described the demands of the pro-Wike lawmakers as mere “noise-making” from delusional individuals.
He emphasized that his administration is focused on progressing smoothly despite the political tussle.
Advertorial
The lawmakers loyal to former governor Nyesom Wike have been at odds with Fubara over control of the state.
After a failed attempt to remove the governor, which included the demolition of Assembly quarters, the lawmakers defected to the APC.
The PDP responded by declaring their seats vacant, a move supported by a Rivers State High Court.
However, the Court of Appeal in Abuja reinstated Amaewhule and the other lawmakers on July 4.
Advertorial
They promptly demanded that Governor Fubara re-present the 2024 budget within a week.
In response, the state government approached the court to prevent the state Chief Judge and others from recognizing the reinstated lawmakers while appealing the Court of Appeal’s decision to the Supreme Court.
Governor Fubara firmly stated that there would be no re-presentation of the 2024 budget.
“We have started preparing the 2025 budget, focusing on education, healthcare, and agriculture,” he said, adding that his administration is committed to addressing these key areas to improve the quality of life in Rivers State.
Advertorial
He also criticized the defected lawmakers, stating, “they are gone, and they are gone. We are not doing any budget to nullify the decision declaring their seats vacant.”
He assured that the 2025 budget would prioritize education, healthcare, and agriculture to ensure sustainable development and job creation for the youth.
The governor reiterated his commitment to standing by the truth and governing the state with integrity, stressing that loyalty should not compromise one’s principles.
Advertorial
He urged the people of Etche Nation to continue supporting his administration’s vision for advancing the state’s well-being.
In response to concerns about herdsmen attacks and illegal dredging activities, Fubara promised to collaborate with the Nigeria Police to address these issues.
The Etche and Omuma representatives pledged their support for Fubara’s administration, expressing confidence in his leadership.
Meanwhile, the PDP has warned the Amaewhule faction to desist from actions that could disrupt peace and governance in the state.
The party called on the Inspector General of Police to ensure the security and stability of Rivers State.
The PDP’s National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, asserted that the defected lawmakers are no longer part of the state Assembly under the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
The party urged Rivers residents to remain vigilant and uphold the law to maintain stability and peace in the state, ensuring the continued delivery of democratic dividends.
