Rivers crisis: Lawmakers Override Governor Fubara, Pass Public Procurement Bill into Law

The Rivers State House of Assembly, during its 173rd legislative sitting, decided to override Governor Siminialayi Fubara’s assent and pass the Rivers State Public Procurement (Amendment) Bill 2024 into law, as stated in a press release titled ‘Rivers Assembly Overides Governor Fubara’s Assent, Passes Public Procurement (Amendment) Bill into Law’ with a sub-title ‘Gives Electricity Market Bill, Local Government (Consolidation) Bill First Reading’ issued by the media aide to the Speaker, Martins Wachukwu, and distributed to the press in Port Harcourt on Monday.

The press release highlighted that the House had initially passed the procurement bill on March 26, 2024, and forwarded it to the governor for approval, which was ultimately denied. Speaker Martin Chike Amaewhule emphasized the bill’s importance in safeguarding taxpayers’ funds and preventing their misuse for unnecessary expenses and questionable contracts.

Furthermore, the statement expressed concern over the disregard for due process and the awarding of contracts without proper legal authorization. Despite these challenges, the House remains committed to upholding the laws of Rivers State and the 1999 Constitution. It was also mentioned that if the governor persists in violating state laws, the House will not hesitate to take more stringent actions when necessary.