Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has provided further clarification on his attempt to present the 2025 budget at the Rivers State House of Assembly quarters on Wednesday morning, stating that the move complied with the recent Supreme Court judgment.
Speaking at the inauguration of the Khana Zonal Hospital in Khana Local Government Area, Governor Fubara emphasised that his decision was driven by a commitment to safeguarding the state’s economy and preventing hardship for civil servants and local government workers.
On Wednesday morning, Governor Fubara arrived at the Assembly quarters, where lawmakers currently hold plenary sessions.
The governor attempted to present the 2025 state budget but was met with a locked gate, preventing his entry.
Fubara had earlier pledged to implement the Supreme Court judgment, which includes the formal presentation of the 2024 budget.
The budget was initially presented to a four-member Assembly faction in December 2023.
Last week, the Assembly issued a 48-hour ultimatum for the governor to present the 2025 budget.
In response, Fubara stated that he was awaiting the Certified True Copy of the court judgment before proceeding.
On Sunday, in a letter signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Tammy Danagogo, and addressed to Speaker Martins Amaewhule, Fubara invited lawmakers for discussions on the Supreme Court ruling.
Addressing the situation, Fubara revealed that he had made several attempts to reach out to the Speaker and other lawmakers, notifying them of his intention to present the 2025 budget at 10 am on Wednesday.
He stressed that his goal was to prevent Rivers State from facing financial uncertainty.
The governor expressed disappointment over being denied access to the Assembly premises, despite making efforts to ensure a resolution.
He added that he remains prepared to present the budget at any time, dismissing media reports suggesting non-compliance or lack of prior communication.
Fubara reassured the people of Rivers State that he has no intention of abusing the power entrusted to him, pledging to continue governing with restraint and a keen awareness that “there is life after power.”
