Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has declared that the 27 lawmakers loyal to the former governor and FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike wouldn’t return to the State Assembly, SAVANNAH NEWSNOW REPORTS.
The governor also announced his intention to present the 2025 appropriation bill to the state house of assembly soon.
This declaration comes in response to a seven-day ultimatum issued by assembly members loyal to Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The 27 pro-wike lawmakers on Monday during plenary directed the Fubara to resubmit the state’s 2024 budget within seven days.
In December 2023, Governor Fubara presented an N800 billion budget estimate for the state’s 2024 fiscal year to the Edison Ehie-led faction of the house of assembly. Despite the ongoing leadership crisis, Fubara managed to present the budget to five members of this faction and signed the 2024 appropriation bill within 24 hours.
The Rivers state assembly has been deeply divided due to a power struggle between Wike and Fubara over control of the state’s political landscape. However, on Wednesday, Fubara stated that he had moved on with the 2024 budget and was focused on preparing the budget for 2025.
“We all know how they crossed over to the APC. They made a mistake, and they are gone,” Fubara said. “When I wanted to help them, I accepted because we are all one. We disagree to agree. They thought they were smart. What is holding them back is the declaration of their seat vacant, which was done in December 2023.”
Fubara assured the public that he is preparing the 2025 budget and will present it soon. He urged citizens not to be deceived by political theatrics, stating, “They can come to the media and dance, but when they go behind, they cry. It is the truth.”
