PORT HARCOURT, Nigeria – Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has written to the State House of Assembly, seeking to re-present the 2025 Appropriation Bill after being denied access during his initial attempt.
In a letter dated Thursday, March 13, 2025 and addressed to Speaker Martin Amaewhule, Fubara proposed presenting the budget on 19 March 2025 at 11:00 a.m., or on any other suitable date within the month.
The governor’s letter comes days after he and his entourage were locked out of the legislative complex on 12 March, despite prior notice of his visit.
Fubara urged the lawmakers to prioritise the state’s interests over political differences.
“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,” Fubara wrote.
He noted that his administration was acting in accordance with both the Supreme Court’s ruling and the Assembly’s earlier 48-hour ultimatum for the budget’s presentation.
However, he lamented that they were prevented from carrying out their constitutional duty.
“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,” the letter read.
Fubara emphasised the need for unity and cooperation, stating, “No matter the depth of our differences, we believe the interests of the state and our people should take priority over political conflicts.”
He concluded by proposing 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.”
The governor’s letter highlights the ongoing political tensions in Rivers State, where the executive and legislative arms have been at odds over governance and leadership.
