The Rivers State House of Assembly, led by Speaker Rt. Hon. Martin Chike Amaewhule, has officially shut down all state government expenditures until Governor Siminalayi Fubara presents the 2024 budget. This decision is in accordance with Section 122 of the 1999 Constitution, as altered.
In a letter addressed to Governor Fubara, the House cited the expiration of the ultimatum given to the governor to submit the budget. The letter emphasized that the governor is not permitted to authorize any withdrawals from the Consolidated Revenue Fund of the state until the 2024 budget is presented and passed by the House.
Key points from the letter include:
1. The governor is prohibited from authorizing withdrawals from the Consolidated Revenue Fund starting from July 1, 2024.
2. The governor and all relevant government officials and departments are requested to cease further withdrawals until the 2024 budget is approved.
3. Relevant authorities and organizations have been notified of this shutdown.
The letter was copied to various key officials, including the Deputy Governor of Rivers State, the Secretary to the Rivers State Government, the Head of Service, and top financial officers, ensuring widespread awareness of the expenditure shutdown.
The Assembly’s firm action underscores the importance of fiscal responsibility and adherence to constitutional provisions in state governance. The shutdown will remain in effect until the governor fulfills the legislative requirements by presenting the 2024 budget to the House.
