Rivers Assembly resumes, seeks probe of Sole Administrator’s budget

After six months of suspension during emergency rule, the Rivers State House of Assembly reconvened on Monday in Port Harcourt, resolving to investigate the budget received and spent by the outgone Military Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (Rtd).

The lawmakers stressed that the 10th Assembly had no input in the budget prepared by the National Assembly during the emergency period. They also resolved to set a legislative agenda for the remaining two years of their tenure, pledging cooperation with Governor Siminalayi Fubara and adherence to the peace agreement brokered by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Speaker Martins Amaewhule, who presided over the session attended by 26 members, excluding Deputy Speaker Dumle Maol, said it was necessary to review the financial activities of the interim administration. He urged the governor to immediately initiate a new Appropriation Law for the remaining part of the year in line with current realities.

Other resolutions include commending President Tinubu for restoring democratic institutions in Rivers State, urging Fubara to forward commissioner nominees for the State Executive Council, and reviewing contracts and expenditures made in the last six months.

Amaewhule praised members for supporting the motion, sponsored by nine lawmakers and read by House Leader Hon. Major Jack, noting that the suspension hindered legislative business. He added: “There’s need to abide by the peace parley. No member opposed the prayers, especially on commendation for the President, commissioner nominees from the Governor, and review of the budget. If Rivers State must move forward, these issues must be addressed.”

The House adjourned plenary to 10 a.m. on Monday, September 22.