Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara has revealed that the state government account held over ₦300 billion when he was suspended during the six-month emergency rule imposed by President Bola Tinubu in March 2025.
The emergency rule saw the suspension of Governor Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and the entire Rivers State House of Assembly, with a sole administrator appointed to oversee the state’s affairs.
Speaking on Wednesday during the commissioning of the Obodhi–Ozochi Road and Bridge Project in Ahoada East and West Local Government Areas, Fubara stated that when he resumed office in September, he found approximately ₦600 billion in the state coffers.
“The money is being prudently utilised for viable projects, and my administration is committed to transparency and accountability,” Fubara said.
He further assured residents of Rivers State of the integrity of his administration’s financial management:
“I want to also say to the whole world that when we left during the emergency rule, our records are there; we left over ₦300 billion. When we came back, we met about ₦600 billion. The record is there for every penny we spend, and the evidence will show within the next 12 months.
“So there is no issue with what we are doing with the money. At least nobody can take away my sincerity and genuineness. I am not associated with any fraudulent activity. Nobody can associate me with anything that has to do with any bad thing. Your money and the record of how it was spent are intact.”
Fubara also addressed the state’s approach to infrastructural projects, saying:
“We have very strong projects that we are doing. We don’t believe in flagging off projects unless necessary. We believe in commissioning them. We don’t want to spend money to flag off projects, then spend more to commission them. Let’s save the money and entertain you when we are ready to show what we have done with your money.”
He added that his record of accountability extends beyond his current administration, emphasizing his professional commitment to transparency and record-keeping.
However, Fubara’s statements come amid renewed tension with the Rivers State House of Assembly.
Last week, the lawmakers, through Speaker Martin Amaewhule, accused the governor of unapproved spending, alleging that he is awarding contracts to allies, including those implicated in the burning of the Rivers House of Assembly complex.
Despite these accusations, Fubara affirmed that public funds are being used solely for the development and betterment of the people of Rivers State.
