Ahamewule-Fubara

Political tension in Rivers State is escalating, highlighted by the recent indefinite adjournment of sessions at the Rivers State House of Assembly.

On Thursday, Governor Fubara sent a new letter to the House, informing the lawmakers of his intention to re-present the 2025 Appropriation Bill for consideration and approval. The letter, addressed to the Speaker of the Assembly, Rt. Hon. Martin Amaewhule, recalled Fubara’s earlier attempt to present the budget on March 12, which was unsuccessful due to his denial of entry to the assembly premises.

In his letter, the governor explained that despite previously providing a soft copy notice and attempting to submit a hard copy through the clerk, he and his team were locked out. He emphasized that his actions complied with a Supreme Court judgment that mandated the Assembly to perform its functions within constitutional boundaries. He also reminded the Speaker that the House had issued a 48-hour ultimatum for the budget presentation, even before he received a certified true copy of the judgment and enrolled orders.

Governor Fubara reaffirmed his commitment to governance amidst the ongoing political crisis in the state. He urged all branches of government to fulfill their responsibilities within legal and constitutional frameworks for the benefit of the people. “Regardless of our differences, the interests of the state and our citizens should take precedence over political conflicts,” he stated.

However, in a statement released on Friday by the media aide to the Speaker, Martins Wachukwu, the lawmakers announced that they had adjourned sessions “indefinitely,” indicating the end of the current legislative session. “This adjournment allows lawmakers to focus on implementing the recently passed laws and addressing other pressing matters before returning to the House,” the statement noted. A date for reconvening has not been set.

The recent passage of three important bills marks a significant development for the Rivers State legislative agenda. These bills were formally presented to the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Martin Amaewhule, during a recent legislative session. In his remarks, the Speaker highlighted that these bills are intended to enhance the state’s legal capabilities, paving the way for progress and development.

Key Highlights of the Bills:

1. Rivers State Powers and Privileges Bill 2025: This bill aims to define and safeguard the powers and privileges of the State House of Assembly, ensuring its autonomy and effectiveness in fulfilling its legislative duties.

2. Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission Bill 2025: This legislation focuses on electoral reforms, establishing an independent electoral commission to oversee local government elections, thereby promoting transparency and fairness in the democratic process.

3. Rivers State Local Government Bill 2025: This bill is designed to strengthen local government administration, empower grassroots governance, and ensure efficient service delivery to communities across the state. “The passage of these bills represents a milestone for the Rivers State House of Assembly,” noted Amaewhule.

He reaffirmed the Assembly’s commitment to enacting laws that address the needs of the people and propel the state toward sustainable development. Following the successful passage of the bills, the House has adjourned indefinitely, indicating the end of the current legislative session without a specified date for reconvening. This break allows lawmakers to concentrate on implementing the newly passed laws and addressing other pressing issues before returning to the House. This legislative achievement underscores the Rivers State government’s commitment to improving governance and establishing a strong legal framework to support the state’s growth. As these new laws come into effect, residents can look forward to enhanced governance structures, more transparent electoral processes, and strengthened local government systems.