Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has officially written to the State House of Assembly, notifying them of his intention to present the 2025 budget.
This development comes just hours after the state’s Chief Judge was placed under investigation for alleged age falsification.
Governor Fubara had previously attempted to present the budget on March 12, 2025, but was reportedly barred from entering the Assembly Complex.
The House spokesperson, Hon. Enemi George, attributed the incident to the governor’s failure to provide formal notification to the lawmakers.
In a letter titled “Notice of Presentation of Rivers State 2025 Budget to Rivers State House of Assembly,” addressed to Speaker Martins Amaewhule, Fubara recounted his previous attempt and stated that his administration had already sent a soft copy of the notification, though the Clerk of the House had refused to accept the hard copy.
The governor reiterated that his actions were in line with a Supreme Court ruling directing all branches of government to function within constitutional boundaries.
He also pointed out that the Assembly had issued a 48-hour deadline for the budget presentation, even though his administration had yet to receive an official certified copy of the court’s judgment.
Emphasizing the need to prioritize the state’s progress over political disagreements, Fubara proposed to present the budget on Wednesday, March 19, 2025, at 11:00 a.m.
However, he also expressed willingness to adjust to a date within March that the Assembly might find more suitable.
It remains uncertain whether the Rivers State House of Assembly will acknowledge or respond to the governor’s renewed request, given the extended timeframe provided for the budget presentation.