The Rivers State House of Assembly has firmly rejected Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s proposed N100,000 Christmas bonus for legislators, citing procedural lapses and lack of legislative sanction.
DDM gathered that lawmakers expressed strong reservations, insisting that any allocation of public funds must follow due process and be subject to proper approval by the Assembly before disbursement.
During plenary, several members argued that the bonus, although well-intentioned, violated legislative norms, as no formal motion or resolution was presented and debated prior to the proposal.
Speaker of the House emphasized that the Assembly operates under strict budgetary regulations, and any unilateral action, even by the governor, could undermine institutional accountability and fiscal responsibility.
Some legislators criticized the timing of the bonus announcement, noting that it appeared to bypass internal approval mechanisms, potentially setting a dangerous precedent for future allocations.
While the governor had intended the bonus as a gesture of appreciation for lawmakers’ service during the year, members collectively underscored that legality and transparency cannot be compromised for goodwill gestures.
Opposition members framed the rejection as a defense of legislative authority, stressing that the House must maintain its role as a check on executive actions, especially concerning public funds.
Observers noted that this decision signals a growing insistence by lawmakers on procedural compliance, reflecting heightened awareness of public scrutiny over government spending in Rivers State.
The matter has sparked discussions among political analysts, with some suggesting that the rejection could strain executive-legislative relations, while others argue it reinforces democratic norms and institutional integrity.
DDM reports that the House concluded the session by reiterating that any bonus or financial reward for lawmakers must first pass through legislative channels, ensuring proper documentation, debate, and approval before release.
This firm stance by the Rivers State Assembly demonstrates lawmakers’ commitment to accountability and upholding principles of good governance, even when faced with high-profile executive gestures.
As the year draws to a close, the episode has heightened public attention on fiscal discipline and the responsibilities of elected officials, sending a strong message about the necessity of transparency in government operations.
The Assembly’s decision is expected to influence future executive proposals and reinforce the importance of adherence to constitutional and legislative procedures in Rivers State.
