By Ajibola Olaide, JKNewsMedia Reporter
TENSIONS ESCALATED in Rivers State earlier Wednesday as Governor Siminalayi Fubara was denied entry into the Assembly Quarters to present the 2025 Appropriation Bill.
He said this was despite his formally notifying the House leadership of his intention, reinforcing the deepening political rift between Fubara and factions within the state legislature.
Later during the inauguration of the Bori Zonal Hospital in Khana Local Government Area on Wednesday, Governor Fubara expressed disappointment over the incident.
He highlighted that his compliance with the Supreme Court ruling on the Rivers political crisis was paramount, particularly in ensuring the state’s economic stability and preventing hardship for public sector workers.
The Governor revealed that he had exhausted all channels of communication to inform Speaker Martins Amaewhule and other Assembly members about his scheduled budget presentation at 10.00am.
He stated that WhatsApp messages and phone calls were sent to the Speaker and lawmakers, ensuring they were aware of his visit.
However, upon arrival, he found the gates locked.
“It was unfortunate when we got there this morning, we were denied access. The next thing I hear is that there was no communication. But I leave it to God, who sees in secret places,” Fubara remarked.
The situation has fueled accusations that certain factions within the Assembly are obstructing governance. Fubara maintained that he has adhered to due process and remains hopeful that the lawmakers will align with the Supreme Court directive.
Meanwhile, the Supreme Court, in its February 28, 2025, ruling, upheld a decision barring the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) and the Accountant-General of the Federation from disbursing statutory allocations to Rivers State until Fubara presents the state’s budget to the Amaewhule-led Assembly faction.
The judgment also nullified the October 5, 2024, local government elections in the state.
In response, Fubara directed the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) to organise fresh local government elections, now scheduled for August 9, 2025.
Additionally, the Secretary to the State Government, Tammy Danagogo, in a letter dated March 7, invited the Assembly for a budget re-presentation and a peace meeting on March 10. However, the Assembly insisted that invitations must be properly routed.
However, the Rivers Assembly remains polarised, with one faction supporting Fubara and the other aligned with a former governor of the state, Nyesom Wike, who is currently the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory.
The ongoing power struggle has significantly impacted governance, with key legislative functions caught in the crossfire.
Speaking on the matter, Fubara stressed his commitment to governance despite the political impasse. “I will not abuse power. I will continue to operate with restraint because I know there is life after power,” he asserted.
Inauguration of Bori Zonal Hospital
Shortly after the political turmoil, Governor Fubara inaugurated the Bori Zonal Hospital, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to improving healthcare infrastructure.
The facility, which began under former Governor Chibuike Amaechi’s administration, was left incomplete by the previous government but has now been fully equipped and expanded.
Rivers State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Adaeze Oreh, described the hospital as a vital milestone in the state’s healthcare sector.
“This 105-bed capacity facility will provide high-quality secondary healthcare, including trauma care, maternal health services, and mental health support for the people of Ogoniland and Rivers South-East Senatorial District,” she stated.
Fubara directed the Commissioner for Health to ensure the hospital is operational immediately, emphasising that quality healthcare remains a priority.
