RIVERS STATE HOUSE OF ASSEMBLY RESUMES PLENARY, SEEKS REVIEW OF EMERGENCY RULE SPENDING

The Rivers State House of Assembly resumed plenary on Thursday, following the expiration of the six-month emergency rule declared by President Bola Tinubu on March 18, 2025. Lawmakers demanded a review of funds spent on projects and programmes during the emergency period, unanimously adopting a motion sponsored by nine members including House Leader Major Jack and Deputy Leader Linda Somiari-Stewart.

Reading the motion, Jack noted the emergency rule lapsed at midnight Thursday, restoring full democratic structures. “One of the gains of the emergency period was the successful conduct of the August 30 local government elections that produced 23 chairmen and councillors,” Jack said, stressing need for the Assembly to work with Governor Siminalayi Fubara on a new financial plan reflecting Rivers people’s aspirations.

Jack highlighted that contracts were awarded and funds spent from the Consolidated Revenue Account by the outgone Administrator, necessitating clarity on transactions. He urged Governor Fubara to forward commissioner nominees for the State Executive Council and submit an appropriation bill for the year’s remainder. Speaker Martin Amaewhule said the Assembly would formally write the governor requesting commissioner names and a budget proposal after unanimous voice vote backing the motion.

Jack commended President Tinubu for restoring democracy, assuring the Assembly would abide by the peace accord terms and uphold the Constitution for peace and good governance. All 26 members present backed the motion.