Lawmakers Prevented Me From Presenting 2025 Budget

Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has accused lawmakers of denying him access to present the 2025 Appropriation Bill at the Assembly Quarters, despite officially notifying the House leadership of his readiness to do so.

Fubara made the disclosure on Wednesday during the inauguration of the Bori Zonal Hospital in Khana Local Government Area of the State.

The governor lamented that, in line with the Supreme Court judgment, all stakeholders should prioritize safeguarding the state’s economy and ensuring that civil servants do not suffer unnecessary hardship.

He said, “I made frantic efforts to reach the Speaker, which I believe he cannot deny, alongside other members of the Assembly.

“I even sent WhatsApp messages to them, notifying them that I would be coming at 10am to present the budget. This was to ensure that Rivers State does not face any crisis because of me, as some have alleged.

“But unfortunately, when we got there this morning, we were denied access. And the next thing I heard was that no communication was made. I leave everything to God, who sees all things in secret.”

The governor insisted that he followed due process to resolve the situation and expressed hope that the lawmakers would eventually comply with the Supreme Court ruling.
He stated, “I am aware of reports in the media claiming there was no communication or effort on my part. So, I am using this platform to clarify the situation.

“Like I have always said, nothing lasts forever. Even the greatest power eventually comes to an end. What matters is how we use power. I have chosen not to abuse mine, no matter what they claim.

“When power is abused, it leads to situations like this. But I will remain restrained because I know that there is life after power.”