Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has expressed disappointment over being denied entry to the Rivers State House of Assembly quarters on Wednesday, despite notifying Speaker Martins Amaewhule of his visit.
Fubara, who spoke during the commissioning of health facilities in Khana Local Government Area, insisted that he had formally communicated his intention to re-present the 2025 budget following the Supreme Court’s verdict on February 28, 2025.
“I still believe they might receive further instructions. If that happens, I am still willing to return at any time to resolve this matter,” the governor stated.
The Rivers State Government also shared a letter confirming Fubara’s notification to the Assembly regarding his visit.
On February 28, 2025, the Supreme Court delivered key rulings on the prolonged political crisis in Rivers State.
A five-member panel, led by Justice Emmanuel Akomaye, dismissed Fubara’s cross-appeal challenging the legitimacy of the Amaewhule-led House of Assembly.
The court ruled that Amaewhule should immediately resume legislative activities with other elected members.
Additionally, the apex court barred the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), the Accountant General of the Federation, and other financial agencies from releasing funds to the Rivers State Government until it complies with court orders.
The court also nullified the local government elections conducted in the state on October 5, 2024.
Following the verdict, Fubara pledged to implement the court’s decisions and directed the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) to organize fresh local government elections, now scheduled for August 9, 2025.
However, the House of Assembly later issued an arrest warrant for RSIEC Chairman, Justice Adolphus Enebeli (rtd), over his failure to appear before the lawmakers.
In a separate development, the Secretary to the State Government, Tammy Danagogo, sent a letter on March 7, 2025, requesting a meeting with the Assembly on March 10, 2025, to discuss the budget re-presentation and potential peace talks.
The Assembly, however, responded that the governor must follow the proper channels for such invitations.
