The leader of the pro-Wike lawmakers, Honourable Martins Amaewhule, has voiced strong opposition to Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s intended presentation of an N800 billion budget to the state assembly led by Honourable Oko Jumbo.
In an interview with TVC News from 1:17, Amaewhule expressed concerns over what he views as an unprecedented and constitutionally troubling development in Rivers State.
He argued that the state stands out among Nigeria’s 36 states for its pattern of public expenditure, which he claims lacks the necessary legislative endorsement.
Amaewhule highlighted his concerns regarding Governor Fubara’s approach, suggesting it reflects a disregard for constitutional protocols that govern fiscal responsibilities in the state.
He described the budget presentation as a challenge to democratic norms, arguing that without legislative oversight, the state’s spending lacks transparency and accountability.
Amaewhule contended that this situation poses a risk to the integrity of Nigeria’s constitutional governance.
In his remarks, Amaewhule issued a direct warning to several key state officials, including permanent secretaries, the State Accountant General, and various commissioners.
He cautioned that any participation in spending state funds without proper authorisation from the legislative assembly could carry legal consequences.
According to Amaewhule, such actions would make these officials complicit in what he perceives as an unlawful use of public funds.
Amaewhule said, “Some people must take the bullet for our democracy. There is nowhere in the world, and there is no state in this Federation of Nigeria, that any state government is spending without approval by the assembly. It is only happening in Rivers State.
“And this is the first time in the history of our country that we have a sitting governor who has no respect for the Constitution.
“All of them, including permanent secretaries that the governor is using—the Accountant General of Rivers State—all those who are claiming to be commissioners, spending taxpayers’ money without approval, will all face the law.
“They will have a date with the law at some point in time, and we believe that they will bow to the Constitution and they will bow to this State Assembly.”