The Speaker of the pro-Wike group of lawmakers, Honourable Martins Amaewhule, has strongly criticized Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s proposed presentation of an N800 billion budget to the Honourable Oko Jumbo-led assembly. Amaewhule described the situation in Rivers State as both unprecedented and constitutionally alarming, asserting that the state is the only one in Nigeria conducting government spending without proper legislative approval......Read The Full Article>>.....Read The Full Article>>
Amaewhule accused Governor Fubara of blatant disregard for constitutional provisions, calling it a significant threat to Nigeria’s democratic principles and constitutional governance. He issued a firm warning to state officials, including permanent secretaries, the State Accountant General, and Commissioners, cautioning that any involvement in unauthorized public spending would have legal repercussions.
In a live interview on TVC, Amaewhule stated:
“Some people must take the bullet for our democracy. There is nowhere in the world, and no state in the Federation of Nigeria, where any government spends without approval by the assembly. It is only happening in Rivers State.
This is the first time in our country’s history that we have a sitting governor who blatantly disrespects the Constitution. All those involved—including the permanent secretaries, the Rivers State Accountant General, and those acting as Commissioners—spending taxpayers’ money without legislative approval, will face the law. They will have a date with justice and, eventually, they will bow to the Constitution and this State Assembly.”
Amaewhule’s remarks underscore a growing tension within Rivers State’s political landscape, as he advocates for adherence to constitutional protocols and accountability in governance.