Rivers Assembly Speaker Rebukes Governor Fubara Over Delayed 2026‑2028 MTEF Submission
The Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Martin Amaewhule, has rebuked Governor Siminalayi Fubara for presenting the 2026‑2028 Medium Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) nine months after the deadline set by law.
Amaewhule said the approval was given solely in the interest of the state.
In a statement issued by his media aide, Martins Wachukwu, the Speaker cited Section 10(1)(b) of the Rivers State Fiscal Responsibility Law No. 8 of 2010, which requires the MTEF to be laid before the House in September 2025, four months before the new fiscal year begins.
“Nevertheless, in the interest of the state, the House deemed it appropriate to consider the document, which precedes the 2026 Budget Estimate, even though half of the year has already elapsed,” the statement added.
Lawmakers reviewed the assumptions contained in the MTEF and concluded that, if properly implemented, they would serve the interests of Rivers residents.
“Based on the positive assessment of the MTEF by members, the Speaker put the motion to a vote, and lawmakers approved it unanimously,” the statement continued.
On the same day, the House received a petition from the Chairman of Obio/Akpor Local Government Council, Dr Gift Worlu, delivered by Hon. Emilia Amadi, the representative for Obio/Akpor Constituency II, concerning an alleged imminent security breach, threats to life and property, and an attempted forcible seizure of assets by certain individuals in the LGA.
Amadi urged the Assembly to re‑examine the matter and take decisive steps to safeguard lives and property in the affected communities.
The Assembly last convened in February to vet commissioner nominees forwarded by the governor before adjourning indefinitely. It resumed its sittings on Thursday after a recess of roughly three months.
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