The Rivers State House of Assembly has issued a 48-hour ultimatum to Governor Siminalayi Fubara, demanding that he present the 2025 budget to the legislative body without delay.
The decision was announced during Monday’s plenary session, where lawmakers expressed concern over the delay in the presentation of the state’s financial plan. Speaker of the House, Martin Amaewhule, who presided over the session, emphasized the urgency of the matter, stating that the Assembly expects the governor to comply within the stipulated time frame.
Security was heightened at the Rivers State House of Assembly Quarters as the lawmakers convened to deliberate on pressing legislative issues. Armed security personnel were stationed at key entry points, while additional officers patrolled the perimeter to prevent any disturbances. This increase in security comes amid rising political tensions between the executive and legislative arms of government in Rivers State.
The Speaker’s announcement of the 48-hour ultimatum was made shortly after the plenary session commenced on Monday morning. According to sources within the Assembly, the decision to issue the deadline was prompted by concerns that further delays could disrupt critical government functions and stall developmental projects across the state.
Legislators at the session echoed these concerns, insisting that timely presentation and passage of the budget are essential to ensure the smooth operation of government services and the continuation of ongoing infrastructure projects. Some lawmakers reportedly accused the executive branch of dragging its feet, warning that failure to present the budget within the specified timeframe could provoke a constitutional crisis.
Governor Siminalayi Fubara, who has faced increasing scrutiny from the Assembly in recent months, has yet to issue a formal response to the ultimatum. Political analysts believe the situation could escalate if the governor fails to meet the deadline, especially given the history of strained relations between the executive and legislative branches.
The relationship between Governor Fubara and the Rivers State Assembly has been marked by tension, with disagreements over policy implementation and administrative decisions frequently making headlines. Observers suggest that the budget impasse could be another flashpoint in the ongoing power struggle between the two arms of government.
In recent weeks, there have been speculations of internal conflicts within the state government, with some political insiders alleging that the Assembly’s aggressive stance is linked to broader political maneuvering ahead of the 2027 general elections. However, the House leadership has maintained that their actions are solely motivated by a commitment to ensuring good governance and fiscal responsibility.
As the deadline looms, all eyes are on Governor Fubara to see whether he will comply with the Assembly’s demand or risk further confrontation. The coming days are expected to be critical in shaping the future of executive-legislative relations in Rivers State, with potential implications for the delivery of public services and the state’s political stability.