Rives State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, has disclosed that about ₦600 billion was in the state’s treasury when he resumed office after the six-month state of emergency.
The governor reiterated his administration’s resolve to uphold strict financial discipline, describing prudent use of public funds as a cornerstone of his leadership.
Earlier, Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, Martin Amaewhule, had revealed that the Sole Administrator during the emergency period, Vice Admiral Ikot Ibas (rtd), left roughly ₦600 billion in the state’s coffers.
Fubara confirmed this figure while speaking at the commissioning of the 14.2-kilometre Obodhi–Ozochi Road linking communities in Ahoada East and Ahoada West Local Government Areas.
According to the governor, more than ₦300 billion had already been saved in the state’s treasury before the emergency rule, noting that the amount grew to about ₦600 billion by the time he returned to office.
He assured residents that his government would, within the next six months, present clear and verifiable records showing how public funds are being utilised.
“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.
The governor rejected claims and misconceptions about the handling of state finances, explaining that some of the criticism stems from his administration’s choice to execute projects without frequent public flag-off ceremonies.
He stressed that many impactful projects are ongoing across Rivers State beyond those currently being commissioned.
Fubara maintained that his government’s track record on accountability remains solid, insisting that all available resources are being applied solely for the benefit of the state and its people.
Speaking on the Obodhi–Ozochi Road, he explained that the project was initiated under his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, as part of efforts to mobilise political support ahead of the 2023 general elections through a former lawmaker and his then Chief of Staff, Edison Ehie.
He said Ehie successfully delivered on the assignment, making it necessary for his administration to complete the road and expand its scope.
The governor disclosed that the project was extended by an additional 4.2 kilometres, increasing its total length to 14.2 kilometres.
He also approved requests from the community for the construction of internal roads and urged Edison Ehie to convert the large turnout at the commissioning ceremony into sustained political support for President Bola Tinubu.
