By Our Correspondent
Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has disclosed that he inherited about N600 billion in the state treasury when he resumed office after a six-month state of emergency. The funds were left by the former Sole Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd).
The governor noted that before the emergency rule, his administration had left roughly N300 billion in state accounts, meaning the treasury nearly doubled under the interim administration.
Fubara made the revelation during the commissioning of the 14.2 km Obodhi–Ozochi Road in Ahoada East and West Local Government Areas. The statement comes after Rivers State House of Assembly Speaker Martin Amaewhule raised concerns over how the funds were being utilized, particularly in tackling challenges in public schools.
Assuring the public of accountability, Fubara emphasized that the funds are being managed transparently, adding that his administration would provide a detailed breakdown of expenditures within six months. He also highlighted that projects are commissioned upon completion rather than through elaborate ceremonies, which sometimes draws criticism.
The state of emergency in Rivers, declared in 2025 by President Bola Tinubu, suspended Governor Fubara and other officials amid political unrest. Upon returning, he resumed office and assumed control over the state’s finances.
