Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has once again reached out to the Rivers State House of Assembly, proposing Wednesday, March 19, 2025, as the date for presenting the state’s 2025 budget.
In a letter addressed to the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Martin Amaewhule, the governor recalled his previous attempt to present the budget on March 12, which was unsuccessful due to being denied access to the Assembly premises.
Fubara explained that despite submitting a soft copy notification in advance and attempting to deliver a hard copy through the clerk, he and his team were prevented from entering the complex.
He reiterated that his actions were in line with a Supreme Court ruling, which also mandated the Assembly to operate within constitutional boundaries.
The governor further reminded the Speaker that the House had issued a 48-hour ultimatum for the budget presentation even before he was officially served with the court’s certified true copy and enrolled orders.
Reaffirming his commitment to governance despite the ongoing political crisis, Fubara urged all arms of government to uphold their responsibilities within legal and constitutional limits.
“No matter the depth of our differences, we believe the interests of the state and our people should take priority over political conflicts,” he stated.
The letter officially informed the Speaker of his intention to present the budget on March 19 at 11:00am or at a time deemed suitable by the House.
Fubara expressed hope that the lawmakers would consider his request in good faith.
Tensions between the governor and the Assembly have continued following the Supreme Court’s directive that the 2025 budget must be presented before the House led by Amaewhule.
A dramatic episode unfolded at the Rivers State House of Assembly Quarters on Wednesday when Fubara arrived for the presentation, only to find the entrance gate locked.
Security personnel at the quarters shut the gates as his convoy approached, citing the absence of official communication between the governor and the Assembly.
However, Fubara maintained that he had duly informed the lawmakers of his arrival.
Amid the political impasse, Fubara on Thursday made a fresh appeal to the lawmakers to prioritize the people’s interest and embrace peace.
Speaking at a project commissioning event in Okrika Local Government Area, he emphasized the need for stability in the state.
“It is important at this stage that we all embrace peace,” Fubara said.
Referencing the Supreme Court’s February 28 ruling, the governor urged all political actors to set aside past grievances and commit to its full implementation.
“The Supreme Court has made its judgment, we don’t have any option but to abide by it, and by the special grace of God, we have started the process.
“We are appealing to other parties: consider the interest of Rivers State. The only thing that we owe this state is peace and development.
“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,” the governor said.
