Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has again written to the State House of Assembly, proposing March 19, 2025, as the new date to present the 2025 budget.
In a letter to Speaker Rt. Hon. Martin Amaewhule, Fubara recalled his failed attempt on March 12, when he was denied entry into the Assembly premises despite prior notification and efforts to submit a hard copy through the clerk.
He stressed that his attempt to present the budget aligned with a Supreme Court ruling, which also mandated the Assembly to operate within constitutional limits. He also reminded the Speaker that the House had earlier given him a 48-hour ultimatum to present the budget before he was officially served the court ruling.
Reaffirming his commitment to governance, the governor urged all branches of government to uphold legal and constitutional principles.
“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.
Fubara formally notified the Speaker of his intention to present the budget on March 19 at 11:00 a.m. or at another time convenient for the House, expressing hope for a favorable response.
The dispute between the governor and lawmakers stems from the Supreme Court’s directive for Fubara to present the budget to the Assembly led by Amaewhule. Tensions peaked on Wednesday when Fubara arrived at the Assembly Quarters only to find the entrance locked. Security personnel cited a lack of official communication, though the governor insisted he had informed the lawmakers.
On Thursday, Fubara called for peace while commissioning projects in Okrika Local Government Area.
“It is important at this stage that we all embrace peace,” he said, emphasizing the need for a stable environment for governance. He urged political actors to move forward and implement the Supreme Court’s February 28, 2025, ruling.
“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.
