The Rivers State Government has firmly dismissed circulating rumors and media reports alleging a fresh political crisis and a fallout between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the State House of Assembly over the delay in passing the 2026 Appropriation Bill.
In an official statement released by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Onwuka Nzeshi, the administration labeled the reports as entirely false, misleading, and mischievous.
Setting the Record Straight
Speculation had begun to mount across various online platforms and national dailies suggesting a renewed cold war between the executive and the legislature following the presentation of the staggering ₦1.85 trillion 2026 budget proposal (tagged the "Budget of Resilience for Growth and Development"). Critics pointed to minor delays in the final legislative passage as signs of brewing tension.
However, the state government clarified that both arms of government are working hand-in-hand and that the budget document is simply undergoing its required, thorough legislative procedures.
"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 read.
Moving Past the Politics of the Past
Emphasizing the collective desire to keep the state moving forward, the government stressed that Rivers State has experienced more than its fair share of political turbulence and is in no mood to be dragged back into avoidable controversies.
"The Rivers State Government has gone through difficult times in the past and is not prepared to be dragged into another round of controversies," the statement continued. "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."
With the executive-legislative channels remaining open and collaborative, residents and stakeholders are hopeful that the legislative scrutiny will soon conclude, paving the way for the full implementation of the developmental blueprint across the state.
What are your expectations for the 2026 fiscal year as the budget process moves forward? Let us know in the comments below!
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