Rivers Assembly probes Ibas’ spending, urges Fubara to submit commissioners’ list
By Jeffrey Agbo
Rivers State House of Assembly on Thursday reconvened for plenary, its first sitting since March 12, following the expiration of the six-month emergency rule declared by President Bola Tinubu on March 18, 2025.
At the session, lawmakers unanimously resolved to scrutinize how state funds were managed under the emergency administration headed by Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd). They also called on Governor Siminalayi Fubara to present commissioner nominees for the formation of a State Executive Council.
The motion, co-sponsored by nine members including House Leader Hon. Major Jack and Deputy Leader Hon. Linda Somiari-Stewart, was supported by all 26 members present.
Presenting the motion, Jack highlighted that the emergency rule formally ended at midnight on Thursday, restoring full democratic governance in the state. He pointed out that a key achievement of the period was the August 30 local government elections, which produced 23 chairmen and councillors.
However, Jack stressed the importance of developing a fresh financial framework in collaboration with the governor, noting that the legislature had no input in the budget implemented during the emergency. He explained that several contracts were awarded and money spent from the state’s Consolidated Revenue Account by the outgoing Administrator, which made it necessary to review the expenditure.
He further urged Governor Fubara to “forward the list of commissioner nominees for the constitution of the State Executive Council, in line with the Constitution and the peace agreement that restored democratic institutions in the state.” Jack also pressed for the governor to “submit an appropriation bill for the remainder of the year.”
After a voice vote, Speaker Rt. Hon. Martin Amaewhule confirmed the Assembly’s decision, stating that lawmakers would formally write to the governor requesting the commissioner nominees and a new budget proposal.
Jack also commended President Tinubu for reinstating democracy in Rivers, assuring that the Assembly would uphold the terms of the peace accord and remain committed to the Constitution “in the interest of peace and good governance.”
