Pro-Wike Lawmakers Issues Ultimatum for 2024 Budget Resubmission

The Rivers State House of Assembly, under the leadership of Martin Amaewhule, has issued a seven-day ultimatum to Governor Siminialayi Fubara to resubmit the 2024 budget.

This directive came during the assembly’s newly reopened session on Monday, held at an undisclosed location in Port Harcourt.

This move by the assembly, loyal to Chief Nyesom Wike, the current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, follows a significant legal victory. Last week, the Abuja Court of Appeal overturned a Rivers State High Court ruling that had previously barred Amaewhule and 24 other legislators from holding public office, restoring their legislative powers.

Governor Fubara, who previously led the assembly and presented an appropriations bill worth approximately N800 billion for the 2024 fiscal year, had seen this budget approved and signed into law. The bill was passed by the assembly under the leadership of Edison Ehie, who subsequently resigned to become Fubara’s chief of staff.

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However, in light of ongoing political tensions in the state, President Bola Tinubu intervened, mandating that Governor Fubara resubmit the budget to the Amaewhule-led assembly. This directive was part of an eight-point resolution aimed at addressing the crisis in Rivers State.

During Monday’s plenary session, Amaewhule responded to the presidential directive by issuing the ultimatum. The motion was put forth by the Deputy Speaker, Dumped Mao, and supported by the House Committee chairman. The assembly members present at the meeting unanimously approved the resolution.

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In addition to the budget ultimatum, the assembly also moved forward with other legislative business. They vetted and confirmed a Commissioner nominee, setting the stage for a potential swearing-in by the assembly faction loyal to Governor Fubara, led by Hon. Victor Oko-Jumbo.

The decision to inform Governor Fubara of the assembly’s resolution was also formalized, with the lawmakers agreeing to send an official letter outlining their ultimatum. This development signals a pivotal moment in the ongoing power struggle within Rivers State, as both sides prepare for further political maneuvers in the days to come.