The Rivers State House of Assembly has disputed claims made by Governor Siminalayi Fubara regarding his interactions with lawmakers, stating that he has made false assertions about their meetings. This development comes after Governor Fubara dismissed rumors of a rift between him and federal or state lawmakers from Rivers State, describing such reports as baseless.
According to Speaker Martin Amaewhule, a meeting was convened by Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, at the behest of President Bola Tinubu, following the lifting of the state of emergency. Amaewhule revealed that lawmakers have met with Governor Fubara on two occasions since the emergency rule was lifted, with the first meeting taking place at the FCT Minister’s Abuja residence.
Amaewhule expressed concern that the governor’s recent remarks could trigger another round of crisis in Rivers State, describing them as “unnecessary and condemnable.” He emphasized the need to set the record straight, stating that Governor Fubara lied about not being able to meet with members of the Assembly.
The Speaker also addressed the issue of the state budget, stating that Governor Fubara has not presented the budget to the Assembly for approval. He claimed that the governor spent without an appropriation law in 2024 and continued to do so in 2025, even after the emergency rule was lifted. Amaewhule alleged that during their meeting, the governor refused to present the budget, instead opting to award contracts to his associates, including those accused of masterminding the burning of the Rivers State House of Assembly.
Despite the tensions, the Assembly emphasized that the FCT Minister is committed to promoting peace and progress in the state. The dispute between the governor and lawmakers has significant implications for the governance and stability of Rivers State, and it remains to be seen how the situation will unfold. The Assembly’s accusations against Governor Fubara have raised concerns about transparency and accountability in the state’s governance, and the need for constructive dialogue to resolve the impasse.