By Hauwau Shehu Maikeffi
The Rivers State House of Assembly has accused Governor Siminalayi Fubara of hindering the implementation of a recent Supreme Court judgment, particularly concerning the re-presentation of the 2025 Appropriation Bill. 
Dr. Enemi Alabo George, Chairman of the House Committee on Information, stated that the Assembly has not received any formal communication from the governor regarding the budget presentation. He challenged the governor to produce an acknowledged copy of any letter sent to the House, emphasizing that no such correspondence exists. 
In response, the state government has urged the Assembly to reconvene to facilitate the budget presentation. Commissioner for Information and Communications, Joseph Johnson, claimed that the government had notified the Assembly of the governor’s intention to present the budget but received no response. He alleged that the Assembly adjourned abruptly, preventing the budget presentation. 
The Supreme Court recently ruled against Governor Fubara for recognizing a factional Assembly led by Oko-Jumbo, declaring such actions unconstitutional. The Court mandated the governor to re-present the 2025 Appropriation Bill to the duly constituted Assembly under Speaker Martins Amaewhule. 
The Assembly has proceeded on an indefinite recess, citing the governor’s alleged non-compliance with the Supreme Court’s directives. They have called on the public to urge Governor Fubara to adhere to due process in presenting the budget, accusing him of attempting to manipulate public sentiment against the legislature. 
The stalemate between the Rivers State Executive and Legislative branches has raised concerns about governance and the timely implementation of the state’s budget. Observers hope for a swift resolution to ensure adherence to constitutional processes and the effective administration of state affairs.
