In a significant ruling, the Federal High Court in Abuja on Monday nullified the N800bn 2024 budget signed into law by Rivers State Governor, Simi Fubara. The budget, initially presented in December to a faction of the state House of Assembly consisting of four lawmakers, faced legal scrutiny due to the Assembly's factionalization amid political tensions.
Governor Fubara signed the budget into law after its passage by the lawmakers. However, the court, presided over by Justice James Omotosho, declared that all actions taken by the four lawmakers were null and void. The factional nature of the Rivers Assembly arose from the attempt by 27 lawmakers loyal to ex-governor Nyesom Wike to impeach Governor Fubara.
In addition to nullifying the budget, the court recognized Martin Amaewhule as the speaker of the state assembly. Further details on the court's decision are expected to be disclosed in subsequent updates."
