Again, Gov Fubara seek consent of Rivers Assembly to re-present 2025 Budget

Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has formally notified the State House of Assembly of his decision to re-present the 2025 Appropriation Bill for review and approval.

This comes after a recent standoff between the executive and legislative arms of government.

In a letter dated March 13, 2025, and addressed to Speaker Martin Amaewhule, Fubara requested to present the budget on March 19 or any other convenient date within the month. He stated that this decision aligns with the Supreme Court’s ruling and the Assembly’s request for a fresh presentation of the bill.

The governor recalled that an earlier attempt to submit the budget on March 12 was met with resistance.

He and his team were denied access to the Assembly Quarters, where lawmakers were in session.

Despite sending a soft copy of the budget notice, the Clerk of the House refused to accept the hard copy, further complicating the process.

Fubara pointed out that while the Assembly had given a 48-hour deadline for the budget’s submission, his administration was still waiting for the certified true copy of the Supreme Court’s judgment and its accompanying orders.

He stressed that the court had directed all arms of government to function within constitutional limits and urged lawmakers to focus on the state’s development rather than political conflicts.

Reaffirming his commitment to resolving the impasse, Fubara called on the Assembly to consider his request and facilitate the budget’s approval.

He stated that his administration remains dedicated to the progress and welfare of the people of Rivers State.