Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has formally written to the State House of Assembly, informing lawmakers of his plan to re-present the 2025 Appropriation Bill. The governor has proposed Wednesday, March 19, 2025, for the budget presentation, or any other date within March that the House finds suitable.
In a letter dated March 13 and addressed to Speaker Martin Amaewhule, Fubara noted that this move is in compliance with a Supreme Court judgment and is also a response to the lawmakers’ request for him to re-submit the budget for consideration and approval.
Fubara recalled his previous attempt to present the budget at the Assembly Quarters, where the lawmakers were holding their sessions. He noted that despite arriving with his entourage, they were denied access to the premises, preventing the budget presentation from taking place.
The governor stated, “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.”
He further explained that a soft copy of the budget notice had been delivered to the House beforehand, following the refusal of the Clerk to accept the hard copy. Despite this, he and his team were still locked out of the complex.
Fubara also noted that before this incident, the House had given a 48-hour ultimatum for the budget presentation, even though his administration had not yet received the certified true copy of the Supreme Court judgment and accompanying orders.
The governor stated that his initial visit was in line with the Supreme Court’s directive, which urged all arms of government to function within the framework of the Constitution. He emphasized that resolving the ongoing political issues should be prioritized for the sake of the state’s progress and the well-being of its people.
He added, “No matter the depth of our differences, we believe the interests of the state and our people should take priority over political conflicts.”
With this in mind, Fubara officially informed the Speaker of his renewed intention to present the 2025 budget on March 19, 2025, at 11:00 a.m., or on another date in March that the House finds convenient.
