Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State has brought to light the financial burdens left by the previous administration, revealing that many projects initiated under former Governor Nyesom Wike were not fully paid for, leaving the state with substantial debts.
This disclosure was made during the official opening of the 10.98km Aleto-Ogale-Ebubu-Eteo Road, also referred to as the Old Bori Road, in the Eleme Local Government Area. The ceremony was graced by the Governor of Abia State, Alex Otti.
Governor Fubara pointed out that numerous contractors who worked on projects during Wike’s term are now approaching the state for their pending dues.
“This road was previously not completed but has now been completed. It should be noted. For the records, this contract was awarded to CCECC on August 14, 2023, by this administration.
“This project was awarded N6.7bn, and I can say boldly that no kobo is remaining. We have paid the contractor completely without owing. The purpose of this is to let the world know that if there is one problem this administration has, it is debt.
“Most of the projects commissioned (by the last administration), the contractors are still coming for their balance payments running into millions and billions. I have said I don’t want to talk because I am part of that system, but when they keep pushing me, I will say it so that we will see the nyansh of the fowl.
“But let us leave that one until they are ready; we will also be ready. The small one we are doing now, they are not sleeping; I wonder what will happen when we do the big one,.”
Fubara also mentioned his plans to present a ‘white paper’ at future project inaugurations to transparently show the financial details of state projects.
Addressing the relationship with the Federal Government, Fubara clarified that contrary to some claims, his administration has not been in conflict with the central government but has received its support.
“I heard someone say that when we came in, we were fighting the Federal Government. FG did not use any instrument of state to frustrate you; our scenarios are quite different” he said.
“If we are fighting FG, it’s a different matter; we are talking about the FG that is giving us support while there is a rat inside the house eating the bag of garri. You can imagine such a situation but we have already set the otapiapia for that rat,”
He also explained his choice of inviting Governor Otti to the event, praising Otti’s genuine integrity and proactive approach.
Governor Otti, in his remarks, lauded Governor Fubara’s leadership and commitment to serving the people of Rivers State, recognizing his extensive experience and preparedness to lead amidst the state’s political dynamics.
