Governor Fubara unable to present 2025 budget to Rivers Assembly due to locked gates

Governor Siminialayi Fubara was blocked from presenting the 2025 Appropriation Act to the Rivers Assembly, citing lack of official communication

 

[dropcap]G[/dropcap]overnor Siminialayi Fubara of Rivers State was unable to present the 2025 Appropriation Act to the state’s House of Assembly, as mandated by the Supreme Court, after arriving at the Assembly’s gate to find it locked.

Also read: Pro-Fubara group warns against impeachment, cites unrest risk

This unexpected turn of events occurred on Wednesday, as the governor arrived at the Rivers House of Assembly Quarters with his Chief of Staff, Edison Ehie, and Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Dr. Tammy Danagogo, to fulfill the Supreme Court’s directive.

According to reports by Channels Television, security personnel at the Assembly complex locked the gates upon the governor’s arrival, citing the lack of official communication between the governor and the Assembly regarding the presentation of the budget.

Despite arriving with his team to comply with the court’s ruling, Fubara was unable to enter the premises to carry out the task.

Standing outside the locked gates, Governor Fubara addressed the situation, stating that his intention was to re-present the 2025 Appropriation Bill in line with the Supreme Court’s judgment.

The governor explained that he had made several attempts to reach the Speaker of the House, Martins Amaewhule, and other lawmakers by phone prior to his arrival, but had received no response.

Fubara further mentioned that he had sent a letter to the Speaker inviting the Assembly to attend the presentation, but he did not receive any reply.

“I came here this morning with a few of my EXCO members to comply with the Supreme Court judgment. Before my arrival, I made several attempts by phone call to reach the Speaker and other members.

I also did a letter personally, which was transmitted to the Hon. Speaker for this particular invitation. But it is unfortunate that at the gate, the place is completely sealed, and there is no sign that anything is going to happen today,” Fubara said.

The Governor emphasized that the purpose of his actions was in the best interest of the people of Rivers State. Despite the setback, he expressed optimism, stating that he expected to hear from the Assembly later that day.

“Well, I don’t think there is anything to worry about; maybe they are working on the letter, and I expect to hear from them maybe after this hour,” he added.

This incident has sparked reactions across the state, with concerns growing over the lack of communication between the governor and the Assembly regarding a crucial constitutional matter.

Also read: Ijaw Congress warns against Fubara impeachment, threatens Niger Delta unrest

Governor Fubara’s inability to present the budget as mandated by the Supreme Court could have significant political implications in the coming days.