Rivers Assembly Accuses Fubara of Constitutional Violations, Issues Ultimatum

The Rivers State House of Assembly, under the leadership of Speaker Martins Amaewhule, has formally accused Governor Siminialayi Fubara of multiple constitutional breaches in a letter dated July 8, 2024.

Delivered to Governor Fubara on Monday, the letter outlines serious allegations, including failure to present the 2024 Appropriation Bill as required by Section 121(1) of the Constitution and a Federal High Court judgment issued earlier in the year by Justice J.K Omotosho.

The Assembly’s communication asserts that the governor’s actions have hindered the state government from accessing funds from the Consolidated Revenue Fund until the budget is properly presented to the House.

Additionally, Governor Fubara is accused of inaugurating members of the Rivers State Executive Council without due process, violating Section 192(2) of the Constitution. The letter also cites breaches concerning local government affairs under Section 7(1) of the Constitution and the Rivers State Local Government (Amendment) Law 2023.

Furthermore, the Assembly alleges that Governor Fubara disobeyed court orders by engaging with suspended members of the House, which they deem as a blatant disregard for judicial authority and an abuse of office.

Concluding their communication, the lawmakers issued a seven-day ultimatum for Governor Fubara to address these constitutional infractions and cease all unconstitutional activities. They cautioned that failure to rectify these issues promptly could lead to charges of gross misconduct, escalating legal tensions within Rivers State.