The Rivers State House of Assembly has issued a notice of misconduct against Governor Siminalayi Fubara, citing multiple constitutional and financial breaches. The allegations, signed by 26 lawmakers, include:
Failure to Present the 2024 Budget – The governor did not submit the Rivers State Appropriation Bill 2024 to the House as required by law, despite a Federal High Court order mandating its presentation.
Unauthorized Expenditure – Fubara allegedly approved withdrawals from the state’s Consolidated Revenue Fund without an appropriation law, violating Sections 120 and 122 of the Constitution.
Defiance of Court Orders – The Supreme Court ruled that no state funds should be released without an approved budget, yet the governor continued expenditures against judicial directives.
Obstruction of Legislative Functions – The governor reportedly hindered the Assembly from performing its duties, undermining the separation of powers.
Illegal Demolition of Assembly Complex – Fubara allegedly ordered and supervised the demolition of the Rivers State House of Assembly chamber despite an existing court order protecting the structure.
Unlawful Appointments – The governor appointed individuals to key government positions, including commissioners and public officers, without Assembly screening and confirmation as mandated by law.
Contempt of Judicial Decisions – Despite court rulings recognizing the Assembly leadership under Speaker Martin Amaewhule, Fubara continued engaging with alternative groups for state matters.
Withholding Legislators’ Salaries and Assembly Funds – Since April 2024, salaries of certain lawmakers and funds meant for the functioning of the Assembly have allegedly been withheld, violating a Federal High Court order.
Undermining Governance and Rule of Law – The Supreme Court criticized the governor’s actions as destructive to the government structure due to his fear of impeachment, emphasizing that political disagreements cannot justify constitutional violations.
The Rivers State Assembly has declared that Governor Fubara’s actions demonstrate a disregard for the Constitution and governance principles, warranting accountability under the law.
