The political climate in Rivers State has grown increasingly fraught, culminating in the Rivers State House of Assembly’s decision to adjourn its sittings indefinitely. This development follows a letter from Governor Siminalayi Fubara on Thursday, in which he informed lawmakers of his intent to resubmit the 2025 Appropriation Bill for their review and approval. Addressed to Speaker Rt. Hon. Martin Amaewhule, the governor referenced a failed attempt to present the budget on March 12, when he and his team were barred from entering the assembly premises despite providing prior notice in both digital and physical formats via the clerk.
Fubara argued that his efforts aligned with a Supreme Court ruling mandating the Assembly to operate within constitutional limits. He also noted that the House had previously issued a 48-hour ultimatum for the budget’s presentation, even before he received the certified judgment and enrolled orders. Amid the state’s ongoing political turmoil, the governor underscored his dedication to effective governance, calling on all government branches to uphold their responsibilities legally and prioritize the welfare of Rivers’ citizens. “No matter the depth of our differences, we believe the interests of the state and our people should take priority over political conflicts,” he remarked.
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In response, the Assembly, through a Friday statement by Speaker’s media aide Martins Wachukwu, announced an indefinite adjournment, effectively closing the current legislative session. The statement explained that this pause would allow lawmakers to concentrate on implementing newly enacted laws and addressing urgent issues, though no resumption date was specified. The adjournment came on the heels of the passage of three significant bills, recently presented to Amaewhule, which the Speaker hailed as critical steps toward enhancing the state’s legal and developmental framework.
Key Features of the New Laws:
- Rivers State Powers and Privileges Bill 2025: This legislation aims to safeguard the Assembly’s autonomy and authority, ensuring it can fulfill its legislative role effectively.
- Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission Bill 2025: Designed to reform the electoral system, this bill establishes an independent body to manage local government elections, fostering fairness and accountability.
- Rivers State Local Government Bill 2025: This law seeks to bolster local governance, improving administrative efficiency and service delivery at the grassroots level.
Speaker Amaewhule praised the bills’ passage as a landmark achievement in the Assembly’s mission to enact people-centric legislation and propel Rivers State toward sustainable progress. The indefinite adjournment, he added, provides time to oversee the rollout of these laws. The statement concluded by affirming the government’s commitment to better governance, promising residents improved administrative systems, transparent elections, and stronger local councils as the new laws take effect.
