Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has once again written to the State House of Assembly, proposing Wednesday, March 19, as the new date for presenting the 2025 budget.
In his letter to Speaker Martin Amaewhule, Governor Fubara referenced his previous attempt on March 12, which failed after he was denied access to the Assembly complex.
He explained that despite submitting a digital notice and attempting to deliver a hard copy through the clerk, he and his team were locked out.
The governor emphasized that his actions align with a Supreme Court ruling, which also reinforced the Assembly’s duty to operate within constitutional limits.
He reminded the Speaker that lawmakers had previously issued a 48-hour deadline for budget submission before he received the court’s judgment and enrolled orders.
Fubara reiterated his commitment to governance amid the ongoing political crisis and urged all government institutions to act within legal boundaries for the benefit of the state.
“No matter the depth of our differences, we believe the interests of the state and our people should take priority over political conflicts,” he stated.
His letter formally notified the Assembly of his intention to present the budget at 11:00 a.m. on March 19 or at a time deemed suitable by the House.
The governor expressed hope that lawmakers would grant his request.
Tensions between Fubara and the Assembly, led by Amaewhule, have escalated following the Supreme Court’s directive for the governor to present the budget to the legislature.
The dispute took a dramatic turn on March 12 when Governor Siminalayi Fubara arrived at the Assembly Complex, only to find the entrance locked by security personnel.
Officials claimed there was no formal communication from the governor, though he insisted he had informed the lawmakers of his visit.
