In a dramatic turn of events, Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara was denied access to the Rivers State House of Assembly complex on Wednesday, preventing him from presenting the 2025 budget. The incident underscores the escalating political crisis in the state, pitting the governor against lawmakers loyal to his predecessor, Nyesom Wike.
“Locked Gates and Political Tensions”
Governor Fubara arrived at the Assembly quarters on Wednesday morning to present the 2025 budget, only to find the gates locked. This move comes despite Fubara’s earlier pledge to implement the Supreme Court judgment, which includes the formal presentation of the 2024 budget.
The budget had initially been presented to a four-member faction of the Assembly in December 2023. Last week, the Assembly issued a 48-hour ultimatum for the governor to present the 2025 budget. Fubara, however, stated that he was awaiting the Certified True Copy (CTC) of the Supreme Court judgment before proceeding.
Subheading:
“A Call for Dialogue Ignored”
In a bid to resolve the impasse, Fubara had invited lawmakers for discussions on the Supreme Court ruling. The invitation, conveyed in a letter signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Tammy Danagogo, was addressed to Speaker Martins Amaewhule. The discussions were expected to cover the budget presentation, payment of outstanding salaries to legislators, and other critical issues to chart a way forward for the state.
However, the locked gates suggest that the lawmakers are unwilling to engage in dialogue, further deepening the political rift.
“The Supreme Court Judgment and Its Implications”
The Supreme Court’s recent ruling has been a focal point in the ongoing crisis. The judgment, which Fubara has pledged to implement, includes provisions for the formal presentation of the 2024 budget. The governor’s insistence on waiting for the CTC of the judgment before proceeding with the 2025 budget presentation highlights the legal complexities surrounding the crisis.
“What’s Next for Rivers State?”
The standoff between Governor Fubara and the Assembly raises concerns about governance and stability in Rivers State. With the budget presentation stalled and political tensions running high, the state faces significant challenges in addressing its developmental needs.
The situation calls for urgent intervention to restore normalcy and ensure that the interests of Rivers State citizens are prioritized over political rivalries.
