2025 budget presentation: No matter what they claim, I won’t abuse my power — Fubara
Barth Ndubuwah, Port Harcourt
Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State has strongly condemned the denial of his access to the Rivers State House of Assembly, asserting that despite the ongoing political tensions, he remains committed to upholding the rule of law and will not misuse his authority.
On Tuesday, the governor was prevented from presenting the 2025 Appropriation Bill at the Assembly’s temporary complex along the Port Harcourt-Aba Road.
Fubara had arrived at the premises with his entourage, expecting to deliver the state’s budget, only to be met with a locked entrance, effectively barring his access to the legislative chambers.
Earlier, a four-member faction of the Assembly, aligned with the governor, had issued a 48-hour ultimatum for him to present the budget. However, the Supreme Court had recognised the 27-member faction loyal to former Governor Nyesom Wike, now the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), as the legitimate Assembly members.
Despite the apparent deadlock, Fubara maintained that his efforts to engage with the lawmakers were made in good faith and in accordance with due process. He disclosed that he had reached out to the Speaker and other members of the Assembly, including sending WhatsApp messages to inform them of his scheduled visit to present the budget.
“I made serious efforts to reach the Speaker, which I believe he cannot deny, alongside other members of the Assembly. I even sent WhatsApp messages notifying them that I would be arriving at 10 am to present the budget,” Fubara explained.
The governor underscored his primary objective of maintaining stability in Rivers State and ensuring that the ongoing crisis did not disrupt governance or harm the state’s economy.
“This was to ensure that Rivers State does not descend into crisis because of me, as some have alleged. But unfortunately, when we arrived this morning, we were denied access. And then I heard reports that no communication had been made. I leave everything to God, who sees all things in secret,” Fubara stated.
He also expressed disappointment over media reports suggesting he had made no attempt to reach the Assembly members, using the opportunity to set the record straight.
“I am aware of reports in the media claiming there was no communication or effort on my part. So, I am using this platform to correct that narrative,” he said.
Addressing the broader political turmoil in the state, Fubara reiterated the need for responsible governance and the ethical use of authority.
“As I have always said, nothing lasts forever. Even the greatest power eventually fades. What truly matters is how we exercise that power. I have chosen not to misuse mine, no matter what they claim. When power is abused, it leads to situations like this. But I will remain measured in my actions because I know that there is life after power,” he asserted.
The development came just 24 hours after President Bola Tinubu urged Fubara to comply with the Supreme Court’s ruling on the Rivers Assembly crisis. The president’s directive was issued during a meeting with Niger Delta stakeholders at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
Ahead of the meeting, Tony Okocha, the Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State, had called on Governor Fubara to either resign or face impeachment.
With the political crisis escalating, concerns are mounting over its impact on governance and service delivery in Rivers State. Observers are calling for a resolution to the impasse to prevent further disruption to the state’s administration.
