Court Nullifies Rivers Budget Passed By Pro-Fubara Lawmakers.
Justice James Omotosho of the Federal High Court Abuja has nullified the N800 billion budget passed by the Edison Ehie-led group of the Rivers State House of Assembly. This budget, previously signed into law by Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, faced legal challenges, leading to a significant court ruling.
The court not only nullified the budget but also upheld the suit filed by the Assembly and Speaker Martin Amaewhule against Governor Fubara.
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The suit sought an order of injunction restraining the governor from obstructing the Assembly’s functions under Amaewhule’s leadership.
The controversy surrounding the budget dates back to December 13, 2023, during the political crisis in the oil-rich state and the demolition of the Assembly Complex.
Rivers State 2024 Budget Declares Illegal by Court
Governor Fubara presented the 2024 budget proposal of N800bn to a group led by Edison Ehie, following the court’s restraint on Amaewhule’s use of the Assembly Complex.
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Ehie and other pro-Fubara lawmakers passed the budget estimates, emphasizing its role in promoting economic development and addressing socio-economic inequality.
However, Ehie later resigned, and Amaewhule was reinstated as the Assembly’s Speaker after discussions with President Bola Tinubu.
Amaewhule and 25 lawmakers loyal to ex-Governor Nyesom Wike demanded a fresh presentation of the 2024 budget estimates, leading to the legal proceedings.
Justice Omotosho, in his ruling, addressed various aspects of the case. Notably, he emphasized that the power to make laws in a state is shared among the executive, the state Assembly, and local government areas.
The judge dismissed claims of the National Assembly taking over the state Assembly’s functions unless the state lawmakers are unable to carry out their duties.
The court declared the removal of the Clerk of the Rivers State House of Assembly null and void, highlighting that the appointment of the Clerk and Deputy Clerk is subject to confirmation by the lawmakers.
Justice Omotosho cautioned Governor Fubara against exceeding his powers, stating that interference in the affairs of the State House of Assembly would jeopardize democracy. The judge upheld Amaewhule as the valid Speaker and declared the sitting where the budget was passed by Ehie and four lawmakers as null and void.
The court’s orders included setting aside the purported Appropriation Bill signed by the governor and restraining further demolition or construction of the Assembly building.
This legal development adds a new layer to the political landscape of Rivers State, prompting questions about the implications for governance and legislative processes.
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