In a significant legal development, the Federal High Court in Abuja has invalidated the N800 billion 2024 budget signed into law by Rivers State Governor, Simi Fubara.
The court ruling, delivered by Judge James Omotosho, declared all actions taken by a faction of the state House of Assembly, comprising four lawmakers, as null and void.
The controversy stemmed from the presentation of the N800 billion 2024 Appropriation Bill by Governor Fubara to the factionalized Rivers State House of Assembly in December. The four lawmakers, aligned with the governor, passed the budget, leading to its subsequent signing into law.
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The Rivers State Assembly had become divided following attempts by 27 lawmakers loyal to former governor Nyesom Wike to impeach Governor Fubara. The legal proceedings culminated in the court recognizing Amaewhule as the speaker of the state assembly.
This ruling carries significant implications for the governance and fiscal planning in Rivers State, highlighting the complexities and challenges arising from political divisions within the state assembly. As the legal proceedings unfold, it remains to be seen how this development will impact the state’s financial landscape and political dynamics.
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