Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State was barred from accessing the state assembly to present the 2025 budget. He expressed disappointment over miscommunication with lawmakers loyal to Nyesom Wike. Fubara emphasized his intent to work responsibly and reiterated the need to follow the Supreme Court’s ruling on the budget presentation.
In a recent statement, Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State expressed his dismay regarding his denied access to the state assembly quarters in Port Harcourt. He intended to re-present the 2025 budget to a group of 27 lawmakers led by Speaker Martin Amaewhule, all of whom are aligned with Minister Nyesom Wike.
Governor Fubara stated that he was taken aback by the lawmakers’ refusal, despite having communicated his intention to attend. He made an effort to inform both the Speaker and other assembly members via WhatsApp prior to his visit, ensuring there would be no misconceptions regarding his communications. He indicated, \”But it was unfortunate when we got there this morning, we were denied access, and the next story I am hearing is that we didn’t make any communication.\”
The governor emphasized the necessity of prioritizing the state’s economy and the welfare of public sector employees, in light of a Supreme Court ruling. He expressed optimism that the lawmakers would eventually comply with the court’s directive to present the budget and wished to clarify media misrepresentations regarding his communications.
Fubara affirmed his commitment to responsible governance, declaring, \”What is most important is what we do with the power… I do not intend to abuse my powers.\” He alluded to the ongoing political conflict with his predecessor, Mr. Wike, mentioning that he would maintain a restrained approach to leadership.
The political tension between Fubara and Wike reflects a division within the state assembly, with Pro-Wike lawmakers and those aligned with Fubara forming separate factions. This rift has resulted in parallel assembly sessions and ongoing disputes regarding legislative functions. Following a recent Supreme Court decision, Fubara was mandated to re-present the budget, a requirement he vowed to fulfill despite his differences with the court’s ruling. In a formal invitation extended to lawmakers on behalf of Fubara, discussions were planned regarding assembly sittings, remuneration, and budget presentation, yet the assembly members declined the invitation.
Despite the challenges faced, Governor Fubara remains determined to engage constructively and uphold his responsibilities as governor, aiming for effective collaboration with the assembly in the future.
Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s recent experience reflects ongoing political discord in Rivers State’s assembly, highlighting the complexities of governance amidst factional divides. His commitment to transparent communication and responsible use of power is paramount as he navigates these challenges. The insistence on compliance with the Supreme Court ruling regarding the budget underscores the need for cooperation among lawmakers, despite existing tensions.
Original Source: www.premiumtimesng.com
