The political crisis in Rivers State has deepened after members of the State House of Assembly rejected a ₦100,000 Christmas gift allegedly sent to them on the directive of Governor Siminalayi Fubara. The lawmakers, loyal to FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, described the payments as unsolicited, unapproved, and a violation of constitutional provisions guiding public expenditure, confirming that each member received a credit alert traced to the Rivers State Government account.

In a statement issued by Enemi Alabo George, Chairman of the House Committee on Information and Petitions, the Assembly said it immediately returned the funds upon discovering the transfers. The lawmakers stressed that as a constitutionally recognised institution, the House would not tolerate any spending that bypasses legislative approval, insisting all public expenditures must follow due process as stipulated by the Constitution.

The Assembly further accused Governor Fubara of persistently withdrawing funds from the state’s Consolidated Revenue Account without authorisation since assuming office in 2023, alleging defiance of Supreme Court judgments and the principle of separation of powers. They also issued a stern warning to civil servants and officials allegedly aiding such practices, escalating tensions in the already volatile political landscape. Will this latest confrontation push Rivers State deeper into constitutional turmoil? Visit www.jocomms.com for more news