Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has expressed disappointment over being denied entry to the Rivers State House of Assembly quarters on Wednesday. Fubara had intended to re-present the 2025 budget, as directed by the Assembly following the Supreme Court’s verdict on February 28, 2025.
The governor claimed he had informed Speaker Martins Amaewhule of his visit beforehand. Despite being locked out, Fubara remains optimistic, stating, “I still believe, maybe, they might be instructed later. If they are instructed, I’m still ready to come any day to get this particular issue sorted out.”
This development comes after the Supreme Court’s judgment, which dismissed Fubara’s appeal challenging the validity of the House of Assembly presided over by Amaewhule. The court ordered Amaewhule to resume sitting immediately and barred the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and other agencies from releasing funds to the Rivers State government until it complies with court orders.
The Supreme Court also declared the local government election conducted on October 5, 2024, as invalid. In response, Fubara directed the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) to prepare for a fresh election, scheduled for August 9, 2025.
The situation has escalated, with the Assembly issuing an arrest warrant against RSIEC Chief Justice Adolphus Enebeli (rtd) for failing to appear before the House. Additionally, the Secretary to the State Government, Tammy Danagogo, sought a meeting with the lawmakers to discuss the re-presentation of the 2025 budget and a peace talk, but the Assembly requested that the governor channel his invitation properly.
