By John Moses
The Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Vice-Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retired), has accused officials linked to the suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s administration of obstructing the budget process by withholding vital financial data.
Speaking before the House of Representatives Ad-Hoc Committee on Rivers State Oversight on Wednesday, Ibas revealed that the lack of transparency from some state officials complicated efforts to properly assess and incorporate first-quarter expenditures into the proposed ₦1.48 trillion budget for 2025.
“The absence of cooperation from key figures in the previous administration hindered a full account of funds spent prior to the declaration of a state of emergency,” he told lawmakers in Abuja.
Ibas noted that despite limited access to financial records, the 2025 budget was adjusted to include known expenditures from the suspended administration, ensuring legality and fiscal clarity. The state of emergency in Rivers was declared earlier this year by President Bola Tinubu, following political unrest.
Reviewing the 2024 fiscal year, Ibas highlighted that revenues exceeded targets by over 30%, reaching ₦1.04 trillion, while recorded spending was significantly below budgeted levels. However, he expressed concern that the expenditure figures may have been underreported.
The proposed 2025 budget sets revenue expectations at ₦1.4 trillion, with a spending plan of ₦1.48 trillion. Ibas emphasised allocations to critical sectors, including ₦324.5 billion for infrastructure, ₦38.85 billion for climate resilience projects, and ₦55 billion for healthcare development.
The budget also supports initiatives such as women’s economic empowerment (₦2.5 billion), youth enterprise programmes (₦3 billion), and extensive investments in education and agriculture.
Chairman of the House Committee, Hon. Julius Ihonvbere, commended Ibas for his detailed presentation and assured him of the committee’s support in restoring governance and development in Rivers State.
“We will hold a thorough review of the budget and will engage your team further. Our aim is to ensure that Rivers returns to stability through accountable and transparent leadership,” Ihonvbere stated.
