Rivers State Government Rejects Assembly’s Ultimatum

The Rivers State Government has stated that it will not comply with the 48-hour ultimatum issued by the Martins Amaewhule-led House of Assembly, demanding that Governor Siminalayi Fubara re-present the 2025 Appropriation Bill.

During its plenary session on Monday, the Assembly directed Governor Fubara to submit the budget within 48 hours, citing a recent Supreme Court judgment. The House also claimed to have officially communicated this resolution to the state government.

However, in a letter dated March 5 and addressed to the Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, the state government asserted that it had not received any official notification regarding the Assembly’s resolutions.

‘’The government in the letter signed by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Dr. Tammy Danagogo, said its response was based on a letter it came across on the social media.

“As at the close of work on Tuesday, 4th March, 2025, we are yet to receive the said letter. Neither the office of the governor nor the deputy governor’s office, nor the office of the Accountant-General of the state has received the said letter”.

The government reminded the House that in his state broadcast on March 2, Governor Siminalayi Fubara had stated that, despite his personal views on the Supreme Court judgment, he would abide by and implement the court’s decision as a law-abiding citizen.

He emphasized that his actions would be guided by the rule of law and the best interests of the people of Rivers State.

 “We have since been in contact with our lawyers, who are still awaiting the certified true copy of the judgement of the Supreme Court and hereby reassure you and all the good people of Rivers State that as soon as his Excellency receives the judgement, he will strive to implement same in the best interest of our people”.