By Hassanat Adebowale

Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State was denied entry into the State Assembly Quarters Complex on Wednesday, where he had planned to present the 2025 Appropriation Bill in line with a Supreme Court ruling.

Speaking to journalists outside the locked gates of the complex in Port Harcourt, Governor Fubara expressed disappointment over the situation, emphasizing that his actions were motivated by the best interests of the people of Rivers State.

The Assembly had previously issued a 48-hour ultimatum on March 3, demanding that the governor present the 2025 budget. In response, Fubara informed the lawmakers that he had not yet received the Certified True Copy (CTC) of the Supreme Court judgment. After obtaining the CTC, the governor invited Assembly members to a meeting on March 9 to discuss the way forward, but the invitation went unanswered.

On March 11, Fubara sent another letter to the Speaker of the House, Martins Amawhule, notifying him of his intention to present the budget on March 12. Despite receiving no response, the governor proceeded to the Assembly Quarters Complex, only to find the gates sealed and access denied.

Addressing the press, Fubara questioned the Assembly’s refusal to grant him entry, despite his efforts to comply with the court’s ruling and communicate with the lawmakers.

He said,

“I’m here to comply with the Supreme Court’s judgment. Before arriving, I made several attempts, including phone calls and a personal letter to the Speaker, but unfortunately, the gate is completely sealed. This effort is for the benefit of our people, and that remains my priority.”

The governor called on the Assembly to respond positively, reiterating his readiness to present the budget as required. The incident has raised concerns about the strained relationship between the executive and legislative arms of government in Rivers State, with many observers questioning the implications for governance and public welfare.

GI’s Legal Corner

Under Section 121(1) of the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria (as amended), it is the governor’s duty to present the annual budget to the State House of Assembly. This step is crucial for the smooth operation of the state, as it determines funding for essential services, infrastructure projects, and social programs.

The Supreme Court’s ruling, which reaffirmed the constitutional role of the Assembly, legally obligates both the executive and legislative branches to work together. Preventing the governor from presenting the budget could be considered a violation of constitutional provisions, potentially leading to legal consequences.

If the standoff continues, Governor Fubara may have to approach the courts to compel the Assembly to meet or explore other legal options to avoid a budgetary impasse. At the heart of the matter, the law prioritizes the public interest over political disagreements, requiring both branches of government to set aside differences and collaborate for the benefit of the state.

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