The Rivers State Government has affirmed that the withdrawal of Governor Siminialayi Fubara’s Supreme Court appeal over the 2024 budget does not impact Rt. Hon. Victor Oko-Jumbo’s legitimacy as Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly.
The appeal, which contested lower court rulings on the 2024 budget’s representation to the Martin Amaewhule-led Assembly, was deemed unnecessary by the governor and withdrawn.
In a statement from Port Harcourt, Commissioner for Information and Communications, Warisenibo Joseph Johnson, clarified that the budget cycle had already ended, rendering the appeal moot.
“The 2024 budget expired on December 31, 2024. Pursuing the appeal serves no practical purpose. The logical step was to withdraw it,” Johnson stated. He emphasized that this decision in no way undermines Oko-Jumbo’s authority, as he remains the lawful Speaker.
Dismissal of Political Propaganda
Johnson criticized political opponents for spreading misinformation, stating, “The so-called ‘celebrated appeal’ was voluntarily withdrawn—there is no Supreme Court ruling against Governor Fubara. Any claims otherwise are mere propaganda by desperate politicians.”
He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to legislative stability under Oko-Jumbo’s leadership, dismissing any speculation of his removal.
This article was updated 6 hours ago
