The Rivers State Government has rejected the 48-hour ultimatum issued by the State House of Assembly, led by Speaker Martins Amaewhule, demanding the re-presentation of the 2025 Appropriation Bill.
The ultimatum, which expired on Wednesday, was issued following a Supreme Court ruling that reinstated the lawmakers.
However, the state government, in a letter dated March 5, 2025, and addressed to the Speaker, stated that it had not officially received any such directive from the House.
The letter explained that as of the close of work on Tuesday, March 4, 2025, neither the office of the governor, the deputy governor, nor the office of the Accountant-General of the state had received the said letter.
The government further stated that it had been in contact with its legal team, which was still awaiting the certified true copy of the Supreme Court judgment.
The government reassured the public that once Governor Siminalayi Fubara receives the judgment, he will act in the best interest of the people.
This development underscores a growing tension between the executive and legislative arms of government in Rivers State, as both sides continue to assert authority over budgetary and governance issues.