Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has justified presenting the 2025 budget to three lawmakers instead of the twenty-seven members of the State House of Assembly who defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC). Speaking after signing the N1.1 trillion budget in Port Harcourt, Fubara dismissed the defectors as having permanently lost their seats and emphasized that the Assembly led by Speaker Victor Oko-Jumbo is the only legitimate legislative body.
Addressing criticisms, Fubara cited sustained insults from the faction loyal to former Governor Nyesom Wike and declared that he would no longer tolerate their actions. He argued that the twenty-seven defectors had embarked on a misguided political journey and would not be reintegrated into the Assembly. Fubara affirmed his commitment to focusing on the interests of Rivers State and delivering on governance promises despite political distractions.
Opposition APC Chairman Tony Okocha condemned Fubara’s approach as illegal and divisive. Okocha referenced a 2024 court ruling that required the budget to be presented to the twenty-seven pro-Wike lawmakers, asserting that the exclusion undermines legal and democratic principles. He described the three-member Assembly as an illegitimate gathering and urged the governor to prioritise peace and reconciliation.
Fubara, however, remained steadfast, commending the State Executive Council and the legislature for their partnership. He reiterated his administration’s commitment to advancing infrastructure, healthcare, education, and economic development. The governor tasked his team to build on 2024’s achievements, ensuring visible impact in key sectors like agriculture and social welfare.
Speaker Oko-Jumbo praised the administration’s strides in development, promising continued legislative collaboration. While political tensions persist, the Rivers government has outlined its resolve to safeguard governance integrity and maintain focus on delivering dividends of democracy to the people.
