Another dimension has been introduced to the political crisis in Rivers State, following the nullification of the 2024 budget of the state, which had earlier been signed into law by Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
On Monday, 22nd January, 2024, a Federal High Court sitting in Abuja, nullified the budget.
Justice James Omotoso held that everything done by the four lawmakers who were loyal to Governor Fubara at the height of the crisis late last year, was null and void.
The Court also recognized Martin Amaewhule as Speaker of the state House of Assembly.
Recall that the Rivers State House of Assembly became factionalized last year following a move by 27 lawmakers loyal to former Governor Nyesome Wike, to impeach the incumbent Governor, Simi Fubara.
The House was then factionalized with only 4 lawmakers behind Gov Fubara
In December 2023, the Governor presented an N800bn 2024 Appropriation Bill to the faction of the House, made up of the 4 lawmakers.
After the passage of the bill by the 4 lawmakers, Governor Fubara then signed it into law.
The whole process of passing and signing the budget has now been declared illegal.
