The Rivers House of Assembly has passed a resolution, calling upon Governor Siminialaye Fubara to revisit and resubmit the state’s 2024 budget and medium-term expenditure framework for thorough reconsideration.
The Speaker, Mr. Martin Amaewhu, spearheaded the motion, expressing concern over the delayed submission of the crucial financial documents by the executive. Emphasizing the constitutional necessity for approval, the Assembly aims to ensure adherence to the stipulations of the 1999 Constitution.
Originally, Governor Fubara had presented a budget totaling N800 billion for the fiscal year 2024 to a four-man House of Assembly on December 13. In a surprising twist, the governor promptly signed the budget into law just 24 hours after its initial presentation to lawmakers on December 14.
However, in the wake of a political crisis in the state, a peace accord facilitated by President Bola Tinubu mandates Governor Fubara to re-present the budget as part of the conditions to bring an end to the tumultuous situation.
The Rivers Assembly’s call for reconsideration underscores the importance of a thorough and transparent budgetary process in aligning with constitutional principles.
