In an apparent repeat of executive rascality, disregard for judicial authority and legislative procedure, Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State has presented the 2025 Appropriation Bill to three individuals masquerading as the Rivers State House of Assembly. This controversial action has raised critical questions about respect for rule of law in the State.
Despite clear judgements of the Court of Appeal, affirming the Rt. Hon. Martin Chike Amaewhule-led Tenth Assembly as the legitimate Rivers State House of Assembly, Governor Fubara has chosen to brazenly sidestep these Judicial pronouncements. Shockingly, the so called 2025 Appropriation Bill was assented to within 48 hours, bypassing due legislative process, even as the matter of the 2024 Appropriation Bill and the legitimacy of the Assembly remain pending before the Supreme Court.
The Court of Appeal in its judgment, upheld the trial court’s decision, which declared as follows: That the presentation of the 2024 Appropriation Bill by Governor Fubara to only four members of the Assembly was invalid and illegal.
That, there is the necessity for the Governor to present the Bill to the legitimately constituted House led by Rt. Hon. Martin Chike Amaewhule.
That, the Rt. Hon. Martin Chike Amaewhule remains the Speaker of the House.
That, Members who allegedly defected are legitimate Members, and empowered to conduct the business of the House until the Supreme Court states otherwise.
That, the judgement remains binding unless stayed by a higher court, reinforcing the legal principle that an appeal does not equate to a stay of execution.
By disregarding these judgements, Governor Fubara has undermined the authority of the Judiciary and violated the principles of separation of powers. His decision to act outside the recognized legislative framework not only threatens governance in Rivers State but also sets a dangerous precedent for future administrations.
The Governor Fubara’s actions must be challenged to restore faith in the rule of law and democracy in Rivers State. Therefore, stakeholders, civil society organizations, and legal practitioners must unite to ensure compliance with court judgements and protect the legislative institution from further abuse. A stitch in time they say saves nine.
Martins Wachukwu
