Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has revealed that about ₦600 billion was available in the state’s treasury when he resumed office following the six-month state of emergency.
The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to financial discipline, stressing that responsible management of public funds remains a key principle guiding his leadership.
Earlier, the Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Martin Amaewhule, had stated that the Sole Administrator during the emergency period, Vice Admiral Ikot Ibas (rtd), left approximately ₦600 billion in the state’s accounts.
Fubara confirmed the figure while addressing attendees at the commissioning of the 14.2-kilometre Obodhi–Ozochi Road, which connects communities in Ahoada East and Ahoada West Local Government Areas.
He explained that prior to the emergency rule, the state had already accumulated savings exceeding ₦300 billion, adding that the figure rose to about ₦600 billion by the time his administration returned to office.
The governor assured residents that within the next six months, his government would present transparent and verifiable documentation detailing how public resources are being spent.
“Today, I want to say to the whole world that during the emergency rule, our records are there. We left over ₦300 billion and something,” Fubara said.
“When we came back, we met about ₦600 billion and something. Every penny that we are spending, the records are there, and evidence will be shown between now and the next six months.
“So there should be no question about what we are doing with our money. At least, nobody can take away my sincerity and genuineness.”
Fubara dismissed allegations and misconceptions surrounding the management of state finances, attributing some of the criticism to his administration’s approach of executing projects without frequent public flag-off events.
He noted that several development projects are currently ongoing across Rivers State beyond those already completed and commissioned.
The governor insisted that his administration remains committed to accountability, emphasizing that all available funds are being deployed strictly for the development of the state and the welfare of its people.
On the Obodhi–Ozochi Road project, Fubara explained that it was initiated under his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, as part of efforts to galvanise political support ahead of the 2023 general elections through a former lawmaker and his then Chief of Staff, Edison Ehie.
He said Ehie effectively carried out the assignment, making it imperative for the present administration to complete the road project and expand its scope.
According to the governor, the project was extended by an additional 4.2 kilometres, bringing its total length to 14.2 kilometres.
He also approved the community’s request for the construction of internal roads and urged Edison Ehie to translate the large turnout at the commissioning ceremony into continued political support for President Bola Tinubu.
