The-27-Lawmakers-Who-Defected Are-Misguided;-Targeting-the-Budget-is-a-Misstep,-Says-Peter-Medee

The 27 Lawmakers Who Defected Are Misguided; Targeting the Budget is a Misstep, Says Peter Medee

By Wisdom Tide 

October 28, 2024

In the midst of ongoing political disputes in Rivers State, Professor Peter Medee, the Commissioner of Budget and Economic Planning, has condemned recent efforts to challenge the 2024 budget, labeling these actions as detrimental to the state’s economic welfare. Medee argues that using the budget as a political tool is a fundamental miscalculation that risks the prosperity of the state and its citizens.

Political Issues Shouldn’t Undermine the Budget’s Intent

In an interview with Arise News, Medee highlighted the inappropriateness of politicizing the budget, stating, “If anybody has political issues or any political disagreement in the state, I think targeting the budget is a wrong target.” He went on to emphasize that the budget should be viewed through the lens of economic development, not political discord. “The budget is about the economy of Rivers State, not the politics of Rivers State,” Medee asserted.

Budget Controversy Amid Legislative Tensions

This controversy comes in the wake of recent tensions within the Rivers State House of Assembly, where the Martin Amaewhule faction, which includes a group of 27 defected lawmakers, has been at odds over the budget’s approval. A recent court ruling invalidated the budget’s passage, citing procedural issues within the Assembly. However, Medee believes that linking political grievances with the budget is a short-sighted move that could stall critical infrastructure, health, and education projects for Rivers State.

Key Investments at Stake in Rivers’ N800 Billion Budget

The budget, which totals N800 billion, is intended to drive substantial economic growth and fund essential infrastructure. Medee underscored that the allocations for the first three quarters of the fiscal year have already been implemented and published. “To the people who are aggrieved or to those who defected and now feel they did not defect…targeting the budget is a mistake,” Medee stated, referring to their actions as “daydreaming.”

Medee Urges Lawmakers to Prioritize State Interests

Medee closed by stressing that the state’s economic initiatives must not be compromised by political rivalries, noting that the economy and welfare of Rivers State residents should take precedence over partisan divisions. He emphasized that budgetary processes serve a vital role in the region’s stability and progress, calling on all parties to focus on the state’s long-term development rather than personal political agendas