Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara faced a shocking turn of events when he arrived at the State House of Assembly to present the 2025 budget. To his surprise, the entrance was locked, denying him access to the complex.

This unexpected obstacle came amid heightened political tensions following a Supreme Court ruling that ordered the suspension of federal allocations to Rivers State until the budget is properly submitted and approved. The ruling has increased pressure on the state government to expedite the budget process.

Governor Fubara had formally communicated with the Speaker, Martin Amaewhule, both in writing and over the phone, before deciding to personally present the budget. However, his efforts were thwarted, and he was left standing outside the locked Assembly complex.

Addressing reporters outside the complex, Governor Fubara expressed his frustration, stating that his effort was solely to serve the people of Rivers State. The incident adds another layer to the ongoing political crisis in Rivers, raising questions about the fate of the state’s financial planning and governance.