Just In: Rivers Assembly to Probe How Funds Were Spent Under Sole Administrator Ibas
- The Rivers State House of Assembly reconvened on Thursday after a six-month hiatus triggered by emergency rule declared by President Bola Tinubu
- Lawmakers unanimously demanded a review of financial activities carried out during the emergency period, citing lack of legislative oversight
- The Assembly called on Governor Siminialayi Fubara to submit commissioner nominees and a fresh budget proposal to restore full democratic governance
The Rivers State House of Assembly reconvened on Thursday, marking its first sitting since the expiration of the emergency rule imposed by President Bola Tinubu on 18 March 2025.
The Assembly had last met on 12 March, just days before the emergency declaration that suspended regular legislative activities for six months.
Source: Twitter
Lawmakers Demand Financial Review Post-Emergency Rule
At the resumed plenary, members of the Assembly unanimously adopted a motion calling for a comprehensive review of financial activities carried out during the emergency period.
The motion, sponsored by nine lawmakers including House Leader Hon. Major Jack and Deputy Leader Hon. Linda Somiari-Stewart, received full support from all 26 members present.
Reading the motion, Jack stated that the emergency rule officially lapsed at midnight on Thursday, thereby restoring full democratic structures in Rivers State.
He acknowledged the successful conduct of the 30 August local government elections as one of the notable achievements during the emergency administration, which saw the emergence of 23 chairmen and councillors across the state.
However, Jack emphasised the need for the Assembly to collaborate with Governor Siminialayi Fubara on a new financial framework that aligns with the aspirations of Rivers residents.
He pointed out that the legislature had neither reviewed nor contributed to the budget executed under the emergency rule, raising concerns about transparency and accountability.
Call for Budget and Executive Council Nominees
Jack further disclosed that numerous contracts were awarded and funds disbursed from the state’s Consolidated Revenue Account by the outgone Administrator.
He argued that it was imperative to establish a clear understanding of the financial decisions made during the emergency period.
In line with constitutional provisions and the peace agreement that facilitated the restoration of democratic institutions, Jack urged Governor Fubara to submit a list of commissioner nominees for the formation of the State Executive Council. He also called for the presentation of an appropriation bill to cover the remainder of the fiscal year.
Following a voice vote in which all members backed the motion, Speaker Rt. Hon. Martin Amaewhule announced that the Assembly would formally write to the governor to request the commissioner nominees and a fresh budget proposal.
In his closing remarks, Jack commended President Tinubu for his role in reinstating democratic governance in Rivers State.
He assured that the Assembly would uphold the Constitution and honour the terms of the peace accord, prioritising peace and good governance in its legislative duties.
Source: Legit.ng
