Fubara Signs N1.1 Trillion Rivers Budget, Parts Ways with Pro-Wike Lawmakers

Governor Fubara approves Rivers State’s N1.1 trillion budget for 2025, signaling a shift in political alliances as he distances from pro-Wike lawmakers.

Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has formally signed the state’s ₦1.1 trillion budget for 2025 into law.

On Thursday, January 2, 2025, during the signing ceremony, Fubara praised the State Assembly led by Victor Oko-Jumbo for their diligent work in passing the bill. He stated firmly: “The only House of Assembly that exists in this state is under Oko-Jumbo’s leadership.”

The budget, presented to the Assembly a week prior, details government expenditures for the fiscal year concluding on December 31, 2025, and is divided into 12 distinct sections.

Fubara, in a sharp comment, rejected the legitimacy of Martins Amaewhule and 26 other lawmakers who switched allegiance from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Despite their efforts to undo their actions, Fubara announced they would no longer be acknowledged as legislators.

The defectors are recognized as allies of Nyesom Wike, the former Governor of Rivers State and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory. His relationship with Fubara has been marked by tension.

“I have faced an unparalleled level of disrespect as a governor in Nigeria,” Fubara asserted, highlighting that the decision to disqualify the defected lawmakers is absolute and cannot be reversed. He reassured residents that his administration remains dedicated to progressing with the state’s development agenda.