Date: January 7, 2026
By: thewatch.ng News
A former Caretaker Committee Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Rivers State, Robinson Ewor, has accused Governor Siminalayi Fubara of misusing public funds by operating the state without an approved budget for the 2026 fiscal year.
Ewor made the claim on Wednesday during a “thank you” visit by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, to Ahoada East Local Government Area.
No Appropriated Budget for 2026
According to Ewor, Rivers State has not yet passed a formal appropriation law for 2026, warning that without legislative approval, all government spending from January 1, 2026, onward would be unlawful. “2026, as we speak, the state has no budget. Every expenditure we make from now on … is an illegal expenditure,” he said.
Ewor added that the lack of cooperation between the executive and the legislative arms of government has hampered effective governance in the state. He emphasised that all three arms executive, legislature, and judiciary must work together to deliver democratic dividends to citizens.
Call for Transparency and Accountability
The PDP chieftain urged the state government to be transparent with Rivers State residents, saying, “let them communicate, let them open up, let them tell their followers the truth.”
Background: Budget Approval Process Still Unresolved
Available reports show that while the Rivers State Executive Council previously approved a proposed budget of approximately ₦1.85 trillion for 2026, the document has not been formally submitted to or passed by the Rivers State House of Assembly for appropriation.
Also Read:Rivers Political Crisis: Governor Fubara Invites Pro-Wike Lawmakers for Crucial Resolution Meeting
This delay has intensified political tensions in the state, which has experienced a prolonged power struggle involving the governor, lawmakers, and key political figures. It follows political turbulence including a federal state of emergency declared in 2025 over governance crises in Rivers State.
What This Means for Rivers Residents
Without an appropriation act passed by the House of Assembly, public expenditures may lack legal backing, raising concerns about fiscal transparency, the rule of law, and everyday governance. Analysts say the situation could affect delivery of public services and development projects if not resolved swiftly.
