- Lawmakers Say No Official Communication Was Received
- Accuse Governor of Staging Drama to Tarnish Assembly’s Image
The Rivers State House of Assembly has dismissed Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s claim that he was prevented from re-presenting the 2025 Appropriation Bill, calling it a deliberate attempt to mislead the public.
According to the Assembly, there was no official communication from the governor indicating his intention to present the budget.
Dr. Enemi Alabo George, the House’s spokesperson and Chairman of the Committee on Information, described Fubara’s allegation as a “comedy skit” designed to damage the Assembly’s reputation.
He recalled that on March 3, the Assembly formally invited the governor to present the 2025 budget following the Supreme Court judgment. The lawmakers, he said, acted swiftly to avoid delays that could harm the people of Rivers State.
Despite facing challenges—including the demolition of their chambers and the non-payment of their entitlements for over a year—the Assembly still urged the governor to submit the budget and nominate commissioners and board members. However, George stated that the governor ignored these appeals.
“Our staff members were even denied entry and allegedly assaulted when they attempted to deliver our resolutions,” he added. “We eventually had to use a courier service, but the governor still refused to act.”
George also questioned the legitimacy of the letter Fubara claimed to have sent to the Speaker, noting that lawmakers only saw it circulating on social media after their Wednesday sitting.
“But even that letter was dated March 11. Does it mean the governor sent a letter on Tuesday—at an unspecified time—and immediately appeared at the Assembly quarters the next morning claiming he was there to present the budget? That defies all legislative procedures,” George argued.
He emphasized that standard protocol requires the governor to wait for an official acknowledgment and invitation from the Assembly before making any presentation.
“The truth is, this was a staged event meant to create public sympathy. The Assembly remains committed to upholding the rule of law and serving the interests of Rivers State. We urge the governor to act responsibly so that the people of Rivers can finally get the governance they deserve.”
