The Rivers State House of Assembly on Thursday resumed plenary following the expiration of the six-month Emergency Rule declared by President Bola Tinubu on March 18, 2025.
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The legislature, which last sat on March 12, a week before the emergency declaration, immediately called for a review of how funds were spent on projects and programmes during the period under Sole Administrator Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd.).
A motion sponsored by nine members including House Leader Hon. Major Jack and Deputy Leader Hon. Linda Somiari-Stewart was unanimously adopted by all 26 lawmakers present.
Speaking on the motion, Jack noted that the emergency rule officially lapsed at midnight on Thursday, restoring full democratic governance. He acknowledged that one of the few gains during the emergency was the successful conduct of the August 30 local government elections, which produced 23 chairmen and councillors.
However, he stressed the need for the Assembly to collaborate with Governor Siminalayi Fubara on a fresh financial plan reflecting the aspirations of Rivers residents, since the legislature had neither seen nor contributed to the budget implemented under the emergency rule.
Jack further highlighted that several contracts were awarded and funds spent from the state’s Consolidated Revenue Account during the emergency, making it imperative to establish a clear record of expenditures.
He also urged the governor to forward the list of commissioner nominees for constituting the State Executive Council in line with the Constitution and the peace agreement that restored democratic institutions. Additionally, he called on Fubara to submit an appropriation bill for the remainder of the year.
Speaker Rt. Hon. Martin Amaewhule said, following a voice vote in which all members supported the motion, that the Assembly would formally write to the governor requesting both the commissioner nominees and a new budget proposal.
Jack commended President Tinubu for ending the emergency rule, assuring that the Assembly would uphold the Constitution and abide by the peace accord to promote stability and good governance in Rivers State.
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