Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has revealed that the state government account grew from over N300 billion when he was suspended under the emergency rule to about N600 billion upon his return in September.
The governor made this disclosure on Wednesday while commissioning the Obodhi-Ozochi road and bridge project in Ahoada East and West local government areas.
He said the increase reflects prudent management of public funds and a firm commitment to transparency and accountability.
“I want to also say to the whole world that when we left during the emergency rule, our records are there; we left over N300 billion.”
“When we came back, we met about N600 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. So your money and the record of how your money was spent are intact,” Fubara said.
The governor further emphasized that his administration prioritizes completing viable projects rather than merely flagging them off.
“We have very strong projects that we are doing. We don’t believe in flagging off projects, except otherwise. We believe in commissioning them. We don’t want to spend money to flag off projects, then spend more to commission them.”
“So let’s save you the money of flagging off and entertain you when we are ready to tell you that this is what we have done with your money. So go and sleep. Call me any day, anytime.”
“The record is there. Right from the time I started working in the government and taking responsibility, my records are there. I’m not even talking about the immediate past administration; I’m talking about the previous administration before this one.”
“The records are there. When it comes to issues of record keeping, it is my profession. So you don’t need to worry about what happens or your money.”
Fubara stated that all public funds are being utilized for the betterment of Rivers residents and reiterated his administration’s commitment to transparency.
This comes a week after the Rivers State House of Assembly, through Speaker Martin Amaewhule, accused the governor of unapproved spending.
The lawmakers alleged that Fubara is awarding contracts to his cronies, particularly those suspected of masterminding the burning of the Rivers House of Assembly complex.
