Rivers Assembly Overrides Gov Fubara’s Assent, Passes Local Government Amendments Bill 2024

The Rivers State House of Assembly has passed the Local Government (Amendment) Bill, 2024, by overriding Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s assent. This legislative action marks a significant event in the political landscape of Rivers State, as it highlights a continuing power struggle between the state’s executive and legislative branches. The Assembly’s decision to override the Governor’s assent follows a pattern of similar actions taken earlier in the year, including the enactment of the Rivers State House of Assembly (RSHA) Service Commission Law and the passing of other bills into law against Governor Fubara’s wishes.

The passage of the Local Government (Amendment) Bill, 2024, represents a clear assertion of the Assembly’s legislative authority and its determination to enact laws it deems necessary for the state, even in the face of opposition from the Governor. This move is not unprecedented, as the Assembly has previously invoked its constitutional powers to override the Governor’s veto, particularly when the Governor withholds assent to bills passed by the Assembly.

Governor Fubara has faced criticism from various quarters for his handling of the situation, with some accusing him of not planning to conduct local government elections in the state. The Local Government (Amendment) Bill, 2024, is seen by many as a crucial step towards ensuring the autonomy and functioning of local government structures in Rivers State. However, the Governor’s reluctance to assent to the bill has been interpreted as an attempt to maintain control over local government appointments and decisions.

This latest development comes amidst a backdrop of political turmoil and power struggles within Rivers State, with Governor Fubara and the Assembly at odds over several issues. The Assembly’s decision to override the Governor’s assent on this occasion underscores the ongoing tension between the executive and legislative branches of the state’s government.

As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how Governor Fubara will respond to the Assembly’s actions and whether this latest move will lead to further political upheaval in Rivers State. The passage of the Local Government (Amendment) Bill, 2024, is likely to have significant implications for the governance and administration of local government areas in the state, as well as for the broader political dynamics between the Governor and the Assembly.