Fubara Denied Entry to Rivers State House of Assembly Quarters
Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State has confirmed that he was denied access to the State House of Assembly quarters. Despite the setback, he remains focused on building a better state where the people’s interests come first.
On Wednesday, March 12, 2025, drama unfolded as Governor Fubara attempted to visit the Rivers State House of Assembly complex to present the 2025 budget in compliance with the Supreme Court ruling. However, he found the gates locked upon arrival, with no security personnel or lawmakers in sight.
Accompanied by the Secretary to the State Government, Tammy Danagogo, Chief of Staff Edison Ehie, and members of the State Executive Council, the governor arrived at the quarters at about 11 a.m. but was denied access.
Fubara Commissions Bori Zonal Hospital
Despite the Assembly standoff, Governor Fubara took to his official social media pages to highlight his commitment to governance, announcing the commissioning of the Bori Zonal Hospital.
He wrote:
“Today, we commissioned the landmark Zonal Hospital, Bori, which will serve the healthcare needs of the South-East Senatorial District of our dear state.”
Today, we commissioned the landmark Zonal Hospital, Bori, which will serve the healthcare needs in the
South-East Senatorial district of our dear State.1/4 pic.twitter.com/LFFyaNZvfO
— Siminalayi Fubara (@SimFubaraKSC) March 12, 2025
Fubara emphasized that the project had been abandoned for years despite its importance in providing healthcare to the people. His administration expanded the structure, ensuring it is now open for use.
“That historical event climaxed our day following our earlier effort to comply with the Supreme Court verdict by visiting the State House of Assembly to present the 2025 Appropriation Bill.
Though I was denied access, I will continue to look forward to a better Rivers State where the interest of the people is considered paramount.”
Though I was denied access, I will continue to look forward to a better Rivers State where the interest of the people is considered paramount.
4/4— Siminalayi Fubara (@SimFubaraKSC) March 12, 2025
Wike Reacts Amid Rivers Political Crisis
Amid his ongoing feud with Governor Fubara, Nyesom Wike, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), commended those who challenged “illegality” in Rivers State. Speaker Martins Amaewhule, a Wike ally, is at the center of the Assembly dispute, opposing Fubara alongside several lawmakers.
During a media chat, Wike stated that elected officials should not be treated as subordinates, as tensions continue to rise in the state’s political landscape.
Dangote Refinery Ramps Up Crude Imports to Attain Full Capacity
As naira-for-crude renegotiations with the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) continue, Dangote Refinery has significantly increased its crude imports from international suppliers.
Reports indicate that the refinery has sourced crude oil from Angola, the United States, and Algeria. Bloomberg reports that in March alone, over three million barrels of American crude oil have arrived at the refinery, alongside significant shipments from Algeria and Angola.
Increased Storage Capacity and Production Growth
Earlier this year, Dangote Refinery constructed eight large storage facilities to accommodate growing crude imports. Analysts at Energy Aspects Ltd revealed that the refinery’s daily crude intake has risen to approximately 450,000 barrels in March, compared to 380,000 barrels per day in the first two months of 2025.
At this pace, Dangote Refinery is on track to reach its full capacity of 650,000 barrels per day, reinforcing its position as Africa’s largest refinery. The increased production has already reduced Nigeria’s dependence on imported fuel, breaking monopolies in the sector.
Expected Drop in Fuel Prices
Industry experts anticipate that as Dangote Refinery scales production, fuel prices will decline. With imported petrol’s landing cost decreasing, consumers may soon see a drop in pump prices.
Despite sourcing crude internationally, the refinery continues to purchase local crude. Bloomberg Tanker tracking data showed that in February 2025, Dangote Refinery acquired 10 million barrels of local crude.
Exploring More Competitive Crude Sources
The refinery is also exploring options in Libya, the North Sea, and the Mediterranean for better crude deals. Energy analyst Ronan Hodgson told Channels TV that U.S. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude is an attractive option due to its light-sweet nature and competitive pricing compared to West African grades.
Crude Price Crash Sparks Optimism for Cheaper Fuel
With global crude prices dropping, analysts predict a further decline in fuel costs. Brent crude prices have fallen to $63 per barrel, significantly lowering the landing cost of imported fuel. If this trend continues, Dangote Refinery and NNPCL may further reduce fuel prices, potentially bringing pump prices as low as N600 per liter.
As political tensions escalate in Rivers State, Governor Fubara remains determined to push forward with governance initiatives. Meanwhile, Dangote Refinery’s strategic crude sourcing and increased production capacity are poised to bring significant economic relief through lower fuel prices in Nigeria.
Stay tuned for more updates on these developing stories.
