RIVERS STATE CRISIS: Amaewhule Led Assembly Declares Complete Halt On All State Expenditures |READ WHY

The Rivers State House of Assembly, led by Rt. Hon. Martin Amaewhule, has imposed a complete shutdown of state expenditures, demanding Governor Siminalayi Fubara present the 2024 budget. This action underscores the escalating political tensions in Rivers State.

The Rivers State House of Assembly, led by Rt. Hon. Martin Amaewhule, has declared a complete halt on all state expenditures. This drastic measure follows the expiration of a seven-day ultimatum given to Governor Siminalayi Fubara to present the 2024 budget to the House. The Assembly’s resolution effectively prevents Governor Fubara from authorizing any expenditure from the state’s consolidated revenue fund. Additionally, state ministries are also prohibited from utilizing public funds until the budget is presented.

The move highlights the escalating political tensions between pro-Wike lawmakers and Governor Fubara’s administration. Martin Amaewhule, leading the Assembly, emphasized that this action is necessary to ensure fiscal responsibility and adherence to legislative procedures. The shutdown of expenditures is seen as a significant step in holding the governor accountable for presenting the budget in a timely manner.

The political crisis in Rivers State has been ongoing, with a faction of the House supporting former Governor Nyesom Wike, who currently serves as the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). This faction’s recent actions have further strained relations within the state’s political landscape. The confrontation reached a peak when pro-Wike lawmakers attempted to impeach Governor Fubara, an effort that was successfully resisted by the governor​ (Legit.ng – Nigeria news.)​​ (Punch Newspapers)​.

The outcome of this standoff remains uncertain, with the state’s financial operations effectively paralyzed until the 2024 budget is presented and approved by the Assembly. More updates are expected as the situation develops.