Panic is mounting in Rivers State political and civil circles after the State House of Assembly adjourned its plenary until January 26, 2026, leaving uncertainty over when Governor Siminalayi Fubara will present the 2026 budget.
The extended break, announced on Friday, December 5, has triggered debate over whether the state will meet the constitutional deadline for budget presentation and passage, which formally begins in December each year.
Lawmakers loyal to Speaker Martin Amaewhule adjourned proceedings following a heated session in which they criticised the governor for failing to forward a list of commissioner nominees or consult the assembly on key governance decisions.
The adjournment effectively leaves the House inactive for the rest of the year, raising fears that the governor may be forced to run initial state operations in the new year without an approved financial framework.
Analysts warn that such a scenario could stall projects and disrupt governance across ministries already weakened by the absence of substantive commissioners.
So far, Governor Fubara has not announced a date for presenting the 2026 appropriation bill.
READ ALSO: Tension as Rivers Assembly Fault Fubara Over Delayed Commissioners’ List
Traditionally, state governors present spending proposals between November and December to ensure legislative approval before the new fiscal year begins.
The latest development comes amid renewed tension between Fubara and the Amaewhule‑led assembly faction, widely linked to Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike.
The relationship between both camps has remained fragile despite peace efforts brokered earlier in 2025.
First Daily reports that the Rivers assembly had criticised Governor Fubara for not sending the list of commissioner nominees for confirmation.
Observers say the prolonged political standoff risks undermining economic stability in Rivers State, warning that the oil-rich state could begin the year without a fiscal direction.