The political tension in Rivers State has escalated further with the Rivers State House of Assembly announcing an indefinite adjournment of its legislative session. This development follows Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s renewed attempt to re-present the 2025 Appropriation Bill for consideration and approval.
In a fresh letter addressed to the Speaker of the Assembly, Rt. Hon. Martin Amaewhule, Governor Fubara recalled his unsuccessful attempt to present the budget on March 12, when he was denied entry into the Assembly premises. He emphasized that despite prior delivery of a soft copy notice and attempts to submit a hard copy through the clerk, access to the premises was barred.
The governor underscored that his actions complied with a Supreme Court judgment, which mandated the Assembly to function within constitutional limits. He also noted that the House had previously issued a 48-hour ultimatum for budget presentation before he even received the certified true copy of the judgment and enrolled orders.
Fubara reaffirmed his commitment to governance despite the political crisis, urging all government arms to operate within legal frameworks for the benefit of the people. “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.
However, in a Friday statement by the Speaker’s media aide, Martins Wachukwu, the Assembly announced an indefinite adjournment, effectively concluding the current legislative session. “This adjournment allows lawmakers to focus on the implementation of the newly passed laws and other pressing matters before returning to the House,” the statement noted.
The decision follows the passage of three key bills, which the Speaker described as critical to the state’s governance and development:
- Rivers State Powers and Privileges Bill 2025: Defines and protects the powers and autonomy of the State House of Assembly to enhance its legislative effectiveness.
- Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission Bill 2025: Establishes an independent electoral commission to oversee local government elections, ensuring transparency and fairness in the democratic process.
- Rivers State Local Government Bill 2025: Strengthens local government administration, empowering grassroots governance for efficient service delivery.
The Speaker, Rt. Hon. Martin Amaewhule, reiterated the Assembly’s dedication to enacting laws that serve the people and advance sustainable development. The passage of these bills, he noted, marks a significant milestone in the legislative agenda of the state.
With the House adjourned indefinitely, uncertainty looms over Rivers State’s governance, particularly regarding the 2025 budget. As political tensions persist, the spotlight remains on how Governor Fubara will navigate the crisis and ensure governance continues uninterrupted.
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