Rivers Assembly investigates Ibas’ spending, urges Fubara to submit commissioner nominees

The Rivers State House of Assembly resumed plenary on Thursday for the first time since March, following the end of a six-month emergency rule imposed by President Bola Tinubu. The lawmakers resolved to review financial decisions made during the emergency administration and called on Governor Siminalayi Fubara to present nominees for the State Executive Council.

During the session, members unanimously agreed to examine the management of public funds overseen by the emergency administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd).

Hon. Major Jack, who co-sponsored the motion alongside eight other representatives including Deputy Leader Hon. Linda Somiari-Stewart, emphasized that the emergency period officially concluded at midnight, restoring the constitutional order. He noted that despite challenges, one notable accomplishment was the successful local government elections on August 30, which appointed 23 chairmen and councillors.

Jack stressed the need to establish a new fiscal framework with the governor, citing that the legislature was excluded from the budget process during the interim administration. Contracts had been awarded and funds disbursed from the Consolidated Revenue Account without legislative oversight, making a comprehensive financial review imperative.

He further urged Governor Fubara to “submit the list of commissioner nominees for the constitution of the State Executive Council,” stating the constitutional requirement and the peace agreement that reinstated democratic structures. The motion also called on the governor to “present an appropriation bill covering the remaining months of the year.”

Speaker Rt. Hon. Martin Amaewhule affirmed the Assembly’s position after a voice vote, confirming that lawmakers would formally request the governor to provide the commissioner list and a fresh budget proposal promptly.

Jack also praised President Tinubu for ending the emergency rule, pledging that the Assembly would respect the peace accord and uphold constitutional governance for the sake of stability and progress.

The Assembly’s resumption is meant to restore full civilian authority and effective governance.  The legislature remains committed to fostering peace and democratic norms in the state.