The political crisis in Rivers State has taken another twist as the Rivers State House of Assembly shuts down indefinitely, leaving Governor Siminalayi Fubara in a tight spot over his 2025 budget proposal. This latest development deepens the power struggle between Fubara and the state lawmakers, raising concerns about governance and legislative authority in the state.
Fubara’s Budget Blocked Again—Political Crisis Deepens
Governor Fubara had on Thursday written to the Rivers Assembly, requesting to re-present the 2025 Appropriation Bill for consideration. His first attempt, on March 12, had failed after he was denied entry into the Assembly complex despite submitting a soft copy of the budget in advance.
Fubara, in his letter to Speaker Martin Amaewhule, insisted that his actions were in line with a Supreme Court judgment that upheld the Assembly’s constitutional responsibilities. He reminded the Speaker that lawmakers had earlier issued him a 48-hour ultimatum to present the budget—long before he received an official copy of the court ruling.
However, instead of scheduling a date for the budget presentation, the Rivers Assembly adjourned indefinitely, effectively suspending all legislative activities.
Lawmakers Shut Down Rivers Assembly—No Date to Reconvene
A statement released on Friday by the media aide to Speaker Amaewhule, Martins Wachukwu, confirmed that the lawmakers had adjourned indefinitely, marking the end of the current legislative session.
“This adjournment allows lawmakers to focus on the implementation of the newly passed laws and other pressing matters before returning to the House,” the statement read in part.
With no date set for reconvening, Fubara’s budget approval remains in limbo, throwing the state’s financial planning into uncertainty.
What Next for Rivers State? Political War Far From Over
The shutdown of the Rivers Assembly follows the passage of three key bills:
- Rivers State Powers and Privileges Bill 2025 – Strengthens the Assembly’s authority.
- Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission Bill 2025 – Creates an independent body for local elections.
- Rivers State Local Government Bill 2025 – Enhances local governance and grassroots administration.
Speaker Amaewhule described the passage of these bills as a major legislative achievement, stating that they will “strengthen the legal framework of the state.”
However, the decision to shut down indefinitely raises serious political questions. Is this a strategic move to weaken Fubara’s administration? Or is it an attempt to assert legislative independence?
Governor Fubara has remained firm, urging all arms of government to act within constitutional limits. “No matter the depth of our differences, we believe the interests of the state and our people should take priority over political conflicts,” he said.
With the Assembly effectively shutting down governance, Rivers State is now at a standstill. The battle for control is far from over, and the coming weeks will determine whether Fubara can navigate this crisis or if the political opposition will tighten its grip on power.
