RIVERS: Fubara writes Assembly again, proposes Wednesday for 2025 budget presentation

In a letter addressed to Speaker Martin Amaewhule, Fubara recalled his failed attempt to present the budget on March 12, when he and his entourage were denied entry into the Assembly premises.

The governor noted that he had previously sent a soft copy of the budget notice and attempted to submit a hard copy through the Clerk, yet the gates were locked upon his arrival.

He emphasized that his attempt to present the budget was in compliance with a Supreme Court judgment, which also mandated the Assembly to operate within constitutional boundaries.

Fubara reminded the Speaker that the House had earlier issued a 48-hour ultimatum for the budget presentation before he even received the certified true copy of the judgment and enrolled orders.

Despite the political crisis in the state, the governor reaffirmed his commitment to governance, urging all arms of government to function within legal and constitutional frameworks for the benefit of Rivers people.

“No matter the depth of our differences, we believe the interests of the state and our people should take priority over political conflicts,” Fubara stated.

The letter formally notified the Speaker of his intention to present the budget at 11:00 a.m. on March 19, or at any other time deemed convenient by the House. The governor expressed hope that his request would be considered favorably.

The ongoing power tussle between Fubara and the lawmakers escalated after the Supreme Court ruling ordering him to present the 2025 budget to the Assembly led by Amaewhule.

On March 12, the crisis took a dramatic turn when Fubara arrived at the Rivers State House of Assembly Quarters but was denied entry.

Security personnel locked the gates, claiming there was no official communication between the governor and the Assembly, despite Fubara insisting he had notified lawmakers of his visit.

Speaking yesterday, during a project commissioning in Okrika Local Government Area, Fubara called on lawmakers to prioritize the interests of Rivers people and embrace peace.

“It is important at this stage that we all embrace peace,” he said.

The governor stressed the need for stability to govern effectively, urging all political actors to move forward and fully implement the February 28 Supreme Court 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,” Fubara stated.’

“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.”