The Rivers State Government has dismissed reports of a disagreement between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and members of the State House of Assembly over the delay in passing the 2026 Appropriation Bill.
The government, in a statement issued on Wednesday by the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Onwuka Nzeshi, said Fubara was working closely with the lawmakers in the interest of the people of the state.
The clarification followed reports suggesting that the executive and legislative arms of government were at odds over the state’s N1.854 trillion 2026 budget proposal.
Fubara presented the budget proposal to the House of Assembly on June 10, about a month after the expiration of the budget approved for the former Sole Administrator, Vice-Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas.
The presentation also came after the expiration of the six-month window provided by the Constitution.
The delay in passing the budget had reportedly raised concerns among stakeholders, with a source in the Assembly claiming that fresh agreements between the governor and lawmakers were responsible for the delay.
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“We wish to make it abundantly clear that His Excellency, Governor Siminalayi Fubara, is not at loggerheads with members of the Rivers State House of Assembly, but rather working closely with them to serve the good people of Rivers State,” the statement said.
It added that the N1.854 trillion proposal was already before the lawmakers and would be passed after completing the required legislative procedures.
“The 2026 Budget proposal has been presented to the House of Assembly; it is going through the normal legislative process, and we strongly believe that once the process is completed, it will be passed by the lawmakers,” the government said.
The government urged political actors and other stakeholders to avoid statements that could reignite political tensions in the state.
“The Rivers State Government has gone through difficult times in the past and is not prepared to be dragged into another round of controversies,” it said.
It also appealed for peace and stability, stressing that a harmonious political environment was necessary for the continued development of the state.
“We therefore advise all those bent on promoting negative narratives to desist from such actions forthwith, as we need peace and harmony to ensure steady development of Rivers State,” the government added.
Rafiyat Sadiq is a political, justice, and human rights reporter with Pinnacle Daily, known for fearless reporting and impactful storytelling. At Pinnacle Daily, she brings clarity and depth to issues shaping governance, democracy, and the protection of citizens’ rights.