Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State is set to present the state’s 2025 budget to the Victor Oko-Jumbo-led State House of Assembly.
Speaking at the commissioning of two ultra-modern community town halls and the launch of a scholarship and empowerment program in Akiama and Aganya communities in Bonny Local Government Area on Saturday, Fubara highlighted the productive relationship between the executive and legislative arms, citing the Assembly’s support in screening nominees and swiftly passing executive bills.
His remarks were contained in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Nelson Chukwudi, on Sunday in Port Harcourt.
Represented by Edison Ehie, Chief of Staff at Government House, Fubara said, “The government and people of Rivers State heartily congratulate you, Mr. Speaker, for representing the Ibani Kingdom with distinction. While the legislative arm remains independent, we are committed to collaborating to secure prosperity for our people.”
He lauded Speaker Oko-Jumbo’s support for the government, particularly in facilitating the screening of caretaker committee chairmen and expediting executive initiatives. Fubara further noted that the Speaker’s focus on constituency projects demonstrated his commitment to local development, contrasting this with 25 former Assembly members whom he described as “Abuja-based politicians.”
“Constituency projects show an elected representative’s dedication to their people,” Fubara continued. “Meanwhile, have these 25 former members who deserted their posts undertaken any projects? Have they commissioned anything? They remain absent.”
Governor Fubara lauded the Speaker for his contributions to Bonny, including the establishment of town halls, financial empowerment for 100 Bonny residents, and tertiary scholarships for 30 students.
In response, Speaker Oko-Jumbo thanked the people of Bonny for their support of the 10th Assembly and reaffirmed his commitment to the governor’s agenda, despite opposition from detractors he referred to as “enemies of the state” or the 25 former lawmakers.
Oko-Jumbo also confirmed that Bonny Local Government Area would be included in upcoming infrastructure projects, stating, “We will work tirelessly to further the development of Bonny Kingdom. While many needs persist, I assure you that the 2025 budget, soon to be presented by His Excellency, will prioritize Bonny Local Government.”
