- The Rivers House of Assembly urges Governor Siminalayi Fubara to re-present the state’s 2024 budget for reconsideration, citing constitutional obligations
- The call follows a peace accord facilitated by President Bola Tinubu, emphasizing adherence to constitutional processes for political stability
The Rivers House of Assembly has issued a resolution urging Governor Siminalayi Fubara to re-present the state’s 2024 budget and the medium-term expenditure framework for reconsideration.
The motion, presented by Speaker Martin Amaewhu during the 90th plenary at the legislators’ quarters in Port Harcourt, garnered unanimous support from the assembly members.
Expressing concern, Amaewhu highlighted the absence of the budget and expenditure framework from the executive, emphasizing the constitutional obligation for the governor to present these documents for approval under the 1999 Constitution.
Notably, Governor Fubara had initially presented a budget of N800 billion for 2024 on December 13, seeking approval from the House of Assembly. Subsequently, the governor swiftly signed the budget into law on December 14, a mere 24 hours after the presentation.
However, the current call for a resubmission stems from the peace accord facilitated by President Bola Tinubu, stipulating that Fubara re-presents the budget as part of the conditions to resolve the ongoing political crisis in the state.
This parliamentary move underscores the commitment of the Rivers House of Assembly to adhere to constitutional processes and ensure thorough scrutiny of the state’s financial plans, aligning with the broader efforts to bring about political stability through diplomatic channels.