Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has once again written to the State House of Assembly, notifying lawmakers of his intention to re-present the 2025 Appropriation Bill for consideration and approval.
In a letter dated March 13 and addressed to Speaker Martin Amaewhule, Fubara proposed to present the budget on Wednesday, March 19, 2025, or any other date within March that the House deems appropriate.
The governor cited compliance with the Supreme Court’s judgment and a request from the lawmakers as the reasons for his decision.
He also recalled his previous attempt to present the budget at the Assembly Quarters, where he and his entourage were denied entry.
In the letter, Fubara expressed disappointment over the incident, stating:
“You may recall my failed visit to the Rivers State House of Assembly on Wednesday, 12th March 2025, for the presentation of the 2025 Rivers State Budget in compliance with the judgment of the Supreme Court of Nigeria.*
“As you know, the planned presentation of the said budget could not take place because my entourage and I were locked out at the gate and denied entry into the premises despite the prior delivery of a soft copy of the notice to you following the failure of the Clerk to accept the hard copy from us.”
The governor also noted that the Assembly had issued a 48-hour ultimatum for the budget’s presentation, even before his administration received the certified true copy of the Supreme Court judgment.
Stressing the need to adhere to constitutional processes, Fubara reiterated his commitment to resolving the political impasse.
“The Supreme Court has directed that all arms of government should exercise their powers and perform their duties within the ambits of the Constitution and ordinary laws of our country, and this we must do to end the lingering stalemate and advance the progress of our state and the well-being of our people.”
Calling for unity, he urged that the interests of the state should take precedence over political conflicts.
Reaffirming his commitment to due process, Fubara formally requested a new date for the budget presentation.
“Against this background, it is my pleasure to again notify you, Mr. Speaker, of my desire and intention to present the 2025 Budget to the Rivers State House of Assembly on Wednesday, 19th March 2025, by 11.00 a.m. or any other date within March 2025 that you may consider convenient.”
