By Our Correspondent
Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has dismissed reports of a fresh disagreement between his administration and the Rivers State House of Assembly over the proposed 2026 budget, assuring residents that the state remains focused on peace, stability and development.
The governor’s position comes amid reports suggesting that tensions may have emerged between the executive and legislative arms of government over the consideration of the 2026 Appropriation Bill.
Fubara, however, has moved to put the speculation to rest, insisting that there is no rift between his administration and the Assembly over the budget.
The governor urged political leaders, lawmakers and other stakeholders to avoid actions or statements that could create unnecessary tension or undermine the relative peace in the state.
He stressed that Rivers State cannot afford to return to the political uncertainty and confrontation that previously disrupted governance and attracted national attention.
The proposed ₦1.85 trillion 2026 budget is expected to serve as a major instrument for the administration’s development agenda, with attention on critical sectors such as infrastructure, education, healthcare, security and economic development.
Fubara maintained that the budget process should be allowed to proceed through the appropriate legislative channels, with all parties acting in the best interests of the people.
He also called for greater cooperation and constructive dialogue between political actors, emphasizing that disagreements are normal in a democratic system but should never be allowed to threaten peace and governance.
According to the governor, the people of Rivers State deserve an administration focused on improving their lives, completing development projects and creating opportunities rather than one distracted by political disputes.
He therefore appealed to stakeholders to put aside personal and partisan interests and work together to protect the stability of the state.
The governor’s comments are expected to ease concerns among residents and political observers who feared that reports of disagreement over the budget could lead to another confrontation between the executive and legislature.
Fubara reiterated his administration’s commitment to good governance and urged all stakeholders to support initiatives aimed at moving Rivers State forward.
As the 2026 budget process progresses, attention will now focus on the Assembly’s consideration of the proposal and whether the executive and legislature can sustain the atmosphere of cooperation being advocated by the governor.
For Fubara, the priority is clear: Rivers State must choose peace over political tension and development over division.
The governor’s message to stakeholders is therefore a call for unity, restraint and responsible leadership — ensuring that the interests of Rivers people remain at the heart of every political decision.
