The Rivers State Government has refused to comply with the 48-hour ultimatum issued by the State House of Assembly demanding the re-presentation of the 2025 Appropriation Bill. The directive was given on Monday by the Assembly, led by Speaker Martins Amaewhule, following a Supreme Court ruling that reinstated the lawmakers.
In a formal response dated March 5, 2025, the state government stated that it had not received any official communication from the Assembly regarding the demand. According to the government, as of Tuesday, March 4, 2025, neither the governor’s office, the deputy governor’s office, nor the Accountant-General’s office had received any resolution from the Assembly instructing the re-presentation of the budget.
Additionally, the government noted that its legal team is still awaiting the certified true copy of the Supreme Court judgment that reinstated the lawmakers. Officials assured the public that once the judgment is officially received and reviewed, the governor would take the necessary actions in the best interest of the people.
The refusal to comply with the ultimatum signals ongoing political tensions in the state, especially following the legal battle that led to the lawmakers’ reinstatement. The Supreme Court’s ruling had reversed an earlier decision that removed the Assembly members, allowing them to resume their legislative functions.
However, with the government citing a lack of official notification and the pending court documentation, it remains unclear how the dispute over the 2025 budget will be resolved. The standoff raises concerns over governance and budget implementation in the state, as both sides continue to assert their positions.
