Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has responded after being denied entry to present the 2025 Appropriation Bill at the State Assembly Quarters.
Fubara arrived at the temporary Rivers State House of Assembly complex on Port Harcourt-Aba Road on Wednesday, only to find the entrance locked. The lawmakers had previously given him a 48-hour ultimatum to present the budget, which had already been approved by a four-member faction loyal to him.
However, the Supreme Court had recognized the 27-member faction loyal to Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), as the legitimate members of the Assembly. The lawmakers refused Fubara’s invitation to meet at Government House, Port Harcourt.
Speaking at the inauguration of the Bori Zonal Hospital in Khana LGA, Fubara emphasized the need to protect the state’s economy and ensure that civil servants do not suffer due to political conflicts.
“I made frantic efforts to reach the Speaker, which I believe he cannot deny, alongside other members of the Assembly. I even sent WhatsApp messages to them, notifying them that I would be coming at 10 am to present the budget,” Fubara said.
He expressed disappointment over being locked out and dismissed claims that he had failed to communicate with the Assembly.
“But unfortunately, when we got there this morning, we were denied access. And the next thing I heard was that no communication was made. I leave everything to God, who sees all things in secret,” he added.
Fubara reaffirmed his commitment to responsible governance, saying, “Like I have always said, nothing lasts forever. Even the greatest power eventually comes to an end. What matters is how we use power. I have chosen not to abuse mine, no matter what they claim.”
His reaction comes a day after President Bola Tinubu directed him to implement the Supreme Court ruling. Tinubu issued the directive during a meeting with Niger Delta stakeholders at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
Meanwhile, Rivers APC Chairman, Tony Okocha, has called for Fubara’s resignation or impeachment.
