The Rivers State House of Assembly has issued a 48-hour ultimatum to Governor Similanayi Fubara to present the 2025 state appropriation bill. This decision, made by the 27 members of the Assembly led by Martins Amaewhule, follows a recent Supreme Court ruling that reinstated these lawmakers as the legitimate members of the House.
The ultimatum was announced during a plenary session in Port Harcourt. Previously, Governor Fubara had signed a budget of N1.1 trillion into law on January 2, 2025, after it was presented to a different, smaller assembly led by Victor Oko Jumbo.
In a state-wide broadcast, Governor Fubara stated his commitment to implementing the Supreme Court’s judgment after reviewing the official documents. Meanwhile, a heavy security presence has been reported at the Assembly quarters, where the lawmakers are currently operating as their temporary chambers. A combined team of police and Department of State Services (DSS) personnel was deployed to ensure security at the location.
The situation remains tense as lawmakers demand transparency and adherence to the recent court ruling regarding the budget presentation.