Ultimatum – Re-Present 2024 Budget Within Seven Days- Pro Wike Lawmakers Fume
Port Harcourt, Nigeria–
The political instability in Rivers State is taking a new shape. After supporters treaded blames and went off their track to protest and counter-protest, the war has now been taken to the legislators in the State House of Assembly.
This time, a seven day ultimatum has been given to Governor Siminalayi Fubara to re-present the State 2024 budget. The problem marks a new twist to the political instability that is threatening to destroy the once peaceful state.
The ultimatum was issued during an incoherent and rash session at the State House of Assembly. The House of Assembly members loyal to the ex-governor of the State disclosed they were not content with the budget previously presented by the governor.
They argued that the presented budget lacks everything needed to meet the problems bothering the state. They also said it’s unclear, and didn’t meet the transparent standard they deem good enough.
The legislators against the budget said they want a budget that will address the critical issues facing the state.
“We cannot, in good conscience, approve a budget that does not reflect the needs and aspirations of the people of Rivers State,” stated one of the leading lawmakers during the session. “Governor Fubara must revisit the budget and make the necessary amendments to ensure it serves the best interests of our state”
The ultimatum is part of the obvious war going on between the Governor and his predecessor, after disagreement sprouted immediately after the election.
Wike accused the governor of disloyalty. Other politicians loyalty to Wike took side with him and has been fighting the governor.
The governor was also accused of sidelining politicians that are crucial to the smooth and successful running of the state to continue to push his agenda of disruption and disloyalty.
Analysts say the main problem in the state is godfatherism, that Wike wants the governor he singlehandedly put in office to be loyal to him.
The power struggle got messy to the point politicians in the state divided along interest line. The governor wants to curtail the influence of Wike in the state to enable him rule without constraints.
Wike’s political influence in the state cannot be underestimated, and the governor may have taken it for granted, leading to the political structure of the state turning against him.
Governor Fubara in response to the issue has called on the people of he state to remain calm. This time, he showed a level of tolerance by calling for dialogue and fairness within the government.
He also promised to listen to dissenting lawmakers and speak with them to find a lasting solution to the impass. While also promising to make the crucial adjustments that will lead to the passing of the bill.
“My administration remains dedicated to the development of Rivers State and the well-being of its people. We are committed to ensuring that the budget reflects our collective goals and aspirations,” he urged the people while reminding them the state should be put first in everything they do.
The ultimatum has set tongues wagging, and as always, stakeholders have spoken against instability as the state would continue to lose.
Analysts have called for settlement, emphasizing that the internal political instability will stop development and affect the output of the state.
“Rivers State cannot afford to be mired in political disputes at the expense of its development. Both the executive and legislative arms must find a way to collaborate and move forward,” warned a political analyst based in Port Harcourt.
