In a bold move underscoring a deepening institutional rift, members of the Rivers State House of Assembly have collectively returned financial gifts of ₦100,000 each sent to them by the state's Executive Governor, Siminalayi Fubara. The lawmakers declared the transfers, which hit their personal accounts on December 30, 2025, as both unsolicited and unconstitutional.
A Swift and Decisive Refund
The legislature announced its action through a formal statement issued in Port Harcourt on Tuesday, December 31, 2025. The statement was signed by the Chairman of the House Committee on Information, Petitions and Complaints, Hon. Enemi George. According to the disclosure, the funds were credited to the lawmakers' accounts on the governor's instruction, triggering immediate internal consultations.
The Assembly stated it took “prompt and decisive steps” to refund the entire sum back to the coffers of the Rivers State Government. This decision was made after confirming that the money was neither appropriated nor approved by the House itself, a fundamental requirement for public expenditure.
Constitutional Grounds and a Broader Conflict
The lawmakers anchored their decision firmly on the constitutional provisions that govern public finance. They emphasized that the Assembly, as an institution created by law, has a duty to ensure all government spending complies with due process, which includes legislative scrutiny and approval.
“The Rivers State House of Assembly maintains that all public expenditures must follow due process, including legislative approval,” the statement read. It reinforced the principle that no arm of government is above the constitutional checks and balances designed to ensure accountability.
The refund episode is not an isolated incident but adds a new layer to an ongoing dispute. The House further alleged that since Governor Fubara assumed office in 2023, he has persistently drawn funds from the state's Consolidated Revenue Account without seeking the required legislative approval. The Assembly claims these actions have continued despite its repeated warnings, a relevant Supreme Court judgment, and clear constitutional mandates on the separation of powers.
A Warning and a Pledge to the Public
In a stern part of the statement, the legislature issued a caution to civil servants and other officials of the Rivers State Government. It warned against collaborating in what it described as unconstitutional practices. Hon. George noted that the House is aware of “unlawful conducts” by some government staff who allegedly help to contravene both the Constitution and state laws.
The Assembly assured residents of Rivers State of its unwavering commitment to its constitutional duties. It pledged to continue its oversight role robustly, regardless of the evident tensions between the executive and legislative branches of the state government. The refund, they stated, was executed with the leave of the Speaker and represented the collective resolve of the House to safeguard its institutional integrity.
