Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has once again written to the Rivers State House of Assembly, proposing Wednesday, March 19, 2025, as the new date to present the 2025 state budget.
In a letter addressed to Speaker Rt. Hon. Martin Amaewhule, Governor Fubara recalled his previous attempt to present the budget on March 12, which was blocked when he was denied access to the Assembly premises.
He explained that despite sending a soft copy notice and making efforts to submit a hard copy through the clerk, he and his team were locked out of the complex.
The governor emphasized that his actions were in compliance with a Supreme Court ruling, which also directed the Assembly to carry out its duties within constitutional limits.
Fubara reminded the Speaker that the House had issued a 48-hour deadline for the budget presentation, even before he received a certified true copy of the judgment and its enrolled orders.
He reiterated his commitment to good governance despite the ongoing political tensions in the state and urged all branches of government to operate within legal and constitutional boundaries for the benefit of the people.
“No matter the depth of our differences, we believe the interests of the state and its citizens must take precedence over political disputes,” he stated.
The letter formally informed the Speaker of his intent to present the budget on March 19 at 11:00 a.m., or at any other time convenient for the House.
Governor Fubara concluded by expressing hope that the Assembly would positively respond to his request.
The ongoing back-and-forth between the governor and lawmakers follows a Supreme Court ruling requiring Fubara to present the 2025 budget to the Assembly led by Amaewhule.
The situation took a dramatic turn on Wednesday when Governor Fubara arrived at the Assembly Quarters, only to find the entrance gate locked.
Security personnel at the quarters had locked the gates, citing the lack of official communication from the governor to the Assembly, though the governor maintained he had informed them of his visit.
