Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has signed the state’s N1.1 trillion 2025 budget into law, marking a significant milestone for the state’s fiscal direction. The signing ceremony took place on Thursday, with the governor expressing gratitude to the Victor Oko-Jumbo-led State House of Assembly for their diligence in processing the budget.
In his remarks, Governor Fubara reiterated that the only recognized legislative body in Rivers State remains the Oko-Jumbo-led Assembly. This declaration comes amidst a political rift with 27 lawmakers, led by Martins Amaewhule, who defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The governor clarified that the defectors, despite their recent attempts to reverse their actions, can no longer be regarded as members of the Assembly. Fubara emphasized that the state had granted the group sufficient time to reconsider their position, and their disqualification is now deemed final and irrevocable.
This political discord is tied to a broader conflict between Fubara and former Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, who currently serves as the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory.
Fubara noted that no governor in Nigeria has endured the level of disrespect he has faced. Nevertheless, he reaffirmed his commitment to advancing Rivers State’s development and fostering economic progress.
The 2025 appropriation, which spans until December 31, 2025, consists of 12 sections aimed at driving infrastructural and social development across the state. The budget was originally presented to the Oko-Jumbo-led Assembly on Monday last week before being passed into law.
This budget marks a pivotal step in Rivers State’s trajectory toward sustained growth and stability amidst ongoing political challenges.
Comments