Rivers Lawmakers Suspend Sitting “Indefinitely” Following Fubara’s Letter on 2025 Budget Presentation
Rivers State lawmakers have announced an indefinite suspension of their sitting, signaling the conclusion of the current legislative session. This move follows a letter from Governor Siminalayi Fubara to the State House of Assembly, expressing his intent to re-present the 2025 Appropriation Bill for consideration and approval.
Governor Fubara’s letter, addressed to the Speaker of the Assembly, Rt. Hon. Martin Amaewhule, referred to his earlier unsuccessful attempt to present the budget on March 12. The governor explained that he and his entourage had been denied entry to the Assembly premises, despite prior delivery of a soft copy notice and efforts to submit a hard copy through the clerk. He emphasized that his attempt to present the budget was in line with a Supreme Court judgment, which mandates the Assembly to function within constitutional bounds.
Fubara reminded the Speaker that the Assembly had previously issued a 48-hour ultimatum for the presentation of the budget, even before he was served with a certified true copy of the judgment and enrolled orders. In his letter, the governor reaffirmed his commitment to governance and urged all arms of government to work within legal and constitutional frameworks for the welfare of the people, stating, “No matter the depth of our differences, we believe the interests of the state and our people should take priority over political conflicts.”
However, on Friday, the Speaker’s media aide, Martins Wachukwu, issued a statement confirming that the lawmakers had adjourned indefinitely. The adjournment allows lawmakers to focus on implementing newly passed laws and addressing other urgent matters before reconvening. No date for resumption was provided.
This suspension follows the passage of three significant bills into law during the legislative session. The bills were formally presented to the Speaker by the lawmakers, marking a key moment in the state’s legislative agenda.
The key highlights of the passed bills are:
- Rivers State Powers and Privileges Bill 2025: This bill defines and safeguards the powers and privileges of the State House of Assembly, ensuring its autonomy and ability to effectively carry out its duties.
- Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission Bill 2025: Aimed at electoral reforms, this bill seeks to establish an independent electoral commission to oversee local government elections, ensuring transparency and fairness in the electoral process.
- Rivers State Local Government Bill 2025: This bill focuses on strengthening local government administration, enhancing grassroots governance, and improving service delivery to communities.
The passage of these bills, according to the Speaker, underscores the Assembly’s commitment to creating a stronger legal framework for the state, fostering development, and enhancing governance. As these laws take effect, the residents of Rivers State can anticipate improved governance structures, a more transparent electoral process, and a stronger local government system.
Following this legislative achievement, the Assembly has adjourned indefinitely, with no specific date set for the next sitting.
