Rivers State, Nigeria, is on high alert as a 7-day ultimatum issued by the Rivers State House of Assembly to Governor Nyesom Wike to present the 2024 budget reaches its deadline. The ultimatum, issued on July 10, 2024, has sparked tension in the state, with many fearing a political showdown.
The Rivers State House of Assembly, dominated by members of the opposition All Progressives Congress (APC), has been at loggerheads with Governor Wike, a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), over the state's budget. The Assembly has accused the Governor of delaying the presentation of the budget, which is expected to address critical issues in the state.
On July 10, 2024, the Rivers State House of Assembly issued a 7-day ultimatum to Governor Wike, demanding that he present the 2024 budget to the Assembly. The ultimatum was seen as a last resort after repeated requests were ignored by the Governor.
Today, July 17, 2024, marks the deadline for the ultimatum. The Assembly has vowed to take drastic measures if the Governor fails to present the budget. The exact measures are unclear, but sources suggest that the Assembly may consider impeachment proceedings against the Governor.
The ultimatum has created tension in Rivers State, with many residents fearing a political crisis. Security has been beefed up around the Government House and the Assembly complex, with police and military personnel deployed to maintain order.
Governor Wike has remained silent on the issue, fueling speculation about his intentions. The PDP has accused the APC-dominated Assembly of playing politics with the budget, while the APC has insisted that the Governor is responsible for the delay.
The situation in Rivers State is precarious, with the deadline for the ultimatum having reached its climax. The outcome will determine the political trajectory of the state. Will Governor Wike present the budget, or will the Assembly take drastic measures? Only time will tells.