The Rivers State Government has formally responded to the Rivers State House of Assembly regarding the resolutions made pursuant to the Supreme Court judgment delivered on February 28, 2025. In a letter dated March 5, 2025, the Secretary to the State Government, Chief Dr. Tammy Wenike Danagogo, addressed the Speaker of the House of Assembly.

Government Yet to Receive Letter

Chief Danagogo stated that as of March 4, 2025, the government had not received the letter from the House of Assembly, despite it being circulated on social media. This development has raised questions about the communication channels between the executive and legislative arms of government in Rivers State.

Reiterating Commitment to Rule of Law

The government reiterated Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s commitment to obeying and implementing the Supreme Court’s decisions, as stated in his broadcast on March 2, 2025. Governor Fubara had emphasized that notwithstanding his personal opinion on the Supreme Court judgments, he would, as a law-abiding Nigerian, obey and implement their decisions in accordance with the rule of law and the best interest of the people of Rivers State.

Awaiting Certified True Copy of Judgments

The government is still awaiting the certified true copy of the judgments and will implement them promptly upon receipt. This move is seen as a cautious approach, ensuring that the government is guided by the precise wording and implications of the Supreme Court’s decisions.

Context of the Controversy

This development comes amidst a complex situation in Rivers State, where the Supreme Court’s judgment has sparked controversy and power struggles. The House of Assembly, backed by the Supreme Court, has been making moves to assert its authority, including rejecting the governor’s directive to heads of local government administration and calling for the submission of the 2025 budget within 48 hours.

Implications and Next Steps

The response from the Rivers State Government is seen as an attempt to reassure the public and the House of Assembly that the executive arm is committed to upholding the rule of law. However, the delay in receiving the letter and the awaited certified true copy of the judgments may lead to further tensions and power struggles in the state.

As the situation unfolds, the people of Rivers State and the nation at large will be watching closely to see how the government and the House of Assembly navigate this complex and sensitive issue.