Rivers crisis: Governor Fubara vows to present budget anytime despite setback

On Thursday, March 12, Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara clarified his recent attempt to present the 2025 budget at the Rivers State House of Assembly, explaining that his actions were in line with a recent Supreme Court judgment.

While attending the inauguration of the Khana Zonal Hospital in Khana Local Government Area, Governor Fubara shared his commitment to safeguarding the state’s economy and preventing hardship for civil servants and local government workers.

On Wednesday morning, Fubara arrived at the Assembly quarters, where lawmakers were holding their plenary sessions, hoping to present the budget. However, his efforts were thwarted when he was met with a locked gate, preventing his entry.

It was reported that the governor had attempted to present the 2025 budget, following the Supreme Court’s judgment which also mandated the formal presentation of the 2024 budget. The budget had initially been presented to a faction of the Assembly in December 2023.

Last week, the Assembly issued a 48-hour ultimatum for Fubara to present the 2025 budget, to which he responded by awaiting the Certified True Copy of the court ruling before proceeding.

On Sunday, in a letter signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Tammy Danagogo, and addressed to Speaker Martins Amaewhule, the governor invited lawmakers to discuss the Supreme Court ruling.

Governor Fubara revealed that he had made several attempts to contact the Speaker and other lawmakers, notifying them of his plan to present the budget at 10 am on Wednesday. Despite his efforts, he was disappointed to be denied access to the Assembly premises.

He reassured the people of Rivers State that he remains ready to present the budget at any time, dismissing reports that suggested he had failed to communicate or comply with the Supreme Court’s decision.

Fubara pledged to continue governing with restraint, emphasizing that his leadership would always be mindful of the future, stating, “there is life after power.”