Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has confirmed that about N600 billion was in the state’s treasury when he resumed office following the six-month emergency rule imposed on the state.
The governor reaffirmed his commitment to financial prudence, stressing that responsible management of public funds remains a key pillar of his administration.
Fubara’s confirmation aligns with an earlier disclosure by the Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Martin Amaewhule, who stated that the Sole Administrator during the emergency period, retired Vice Admiral Ikot Ibas, left roughly N600 billion in the state’s coffers.
Speaking at the commissioning of the 14.2-kilometre Obodhi–Ozochi Road linking communities in Ahoada East and Ahoada West Local Government Areas, Fubara explained that more than N300 billion had been in the treasury before the emergency rule, with the figure rising to about N600 billion by the time he returned.
He assured residents that his government would, within six months, present clear and verifiable records showing how public funds are being utilised.
“Before the emergency rule, we left over N300 billion and something,” the governor said. “When we came back, we met about N600 billion and something. Every naira we are spending is properly documented, and evidence will be made available within the next six months.”
Fubara dismissed claims of financial mismanagement, attributing some misconceptions to his administration’s approach of executing projects without elaborate flag-off ceremonies. He noted that several impactful projects are ongoing across the state beyond those currently being inaugurated.
He maintained that accountability remains a strong point of his administration, adding that state resources are being deployed strictly for the benefit of Rivers people.
On the Obodhi–Ozochi Road, Fubara explained that the project was initiated under former governor Nyesom Wike as part of preparations for the 2023 general elections, coordinated through a former lawmaker and then Chief of Staff, Edison Ehie. He said the assignment was successfully delivered, prompting the government to complete and expand the road.
According to the governor, the road was extended by an additional 4.2 kilometres, bringing its total length to 14.2 kilometres. He also approved the construction of internal roads requested by the host community.
Fubara further urged Edison Ehie to convert the large turnout at the commissioning ceremony into sustained political support for President Bola Tinubu.
