On Wednesday, March 12, 2025, Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara was denied access to the official quarters of the State House of Assembly along Aba Road, Port Harcourt. This development occurred as Fubara attempted to present the 2025 budget, following a Supreme Court judgment mandating such action.
Governor Fubara arrived at the complex accompanied by top government officials, including the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Tammy Danagogo, and his Chief of Staff, Edison Ehie. However, they were met with locked gates, preventing their entry. Addressing journalists at the scene, Fubara expressed his frustration, stating that prior to his arrival, he had made several attempts to contact Speaker Martin Amaewhule, including phone calls and a formal letter, but received no response.
The governor emphasized that his actions were in the interest of the people and reaffirmed his commitment to fulfilling his constitutional duties. He noted the absence of any signs indicating that the Assembly was prepared to convene that day and expressed hope for communication from the legislators following the incident.
This incident underscores the ongoing political tensions in Rivers State, particularly between factions loyal to Governor Fubara and those aligned with his predecessor, Nyesom Wike. The refusal to grant the governor access to the Assembly complex highlights the deepening rift within the state’s political landscape.
In related developments, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called for strict adherence to the rule of law to achieve lasting peace and prosperity in Rivers State. He emphasized that respect for judicial rulings is essential to sustaining democracy and stability
The situation remains fluid, and it is anticipated that further discussions and interventions will be necessary to resolve the impasse between the executive and legislative branches in Rivers State.
