Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has dismissed reports of a fresh disagreement between his administration and the Rivers State House of Assembly over the 2026 Appropriation Bill, insisting that the budget is progressing through the required legislative process.
The governor’s clarification comes against the backdrop of Rivers State’s turbulent political history, particularly the prolonged confrontation between the executive and legislative arms that once plunged the state into a major constitutional and political crisis.
In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Onwuka Nzeshi, the governor maintained that there was no rift between the state government and lawmakers over the 2026 budget.
Fubara said the appropriation bill had already been formally presented to the House of Assembly and was currently undergoing legislative scrutiny, expressing confidence that lawmakers would complete the process and pass the proposal.
The development marks a notable shift from the tensions that surrounded the state’s budget process earlier in the year. In January, the Rivers Assembly had moved to prevent Fubara from presenting the 2026 budget amid renewed political hostilities and impeachment proceedings.
However, relations between the two arms of government subsequently appeared to improve. On July 10, Fubara presented the proposed N1.854 trillion 2026 budget to the Martin Amaewhule-led Assembly, in what was widely seen as a significant step towards easing the political standoff.
The proposed budget, tagged Budget of Resilience for Growth and Development, provides for total expenditure of about N1.854 trillion, including more than N1.4 trillion for capital projects. The plan focuses heavily on infrastructure, human capital development, social services and economic expansion.
Against this background, Fubara urged political actors and other stakeholders in the state to avoid statements or actions capable of reopening old wounds and triggering another round of confrontation.
He stressed that Rivers State had endured enough political turbulence and should now be allowed to concentrate on governance, development and the welfare of its people.
The governor appealed for restraint and cooperation, arguing that sustained peace and harmony remained critical to maintaining the momentum of development across the state.
His remarks are likely to reassure stakeholders concerned that disagreements over the budget could become a fresh flashpoint in the state’s politically sensitive environment.
With the 2026 appropriation bill already before the lawmakers, attention is now focused on the Assembly’s legislative consideration and eventual passage of the spending plan.
