Rivers State denies renewed clash between governor and lawmakers over 2026 budget

Rivers State officials have refuted claims of a renewed conflict between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the State House of Assembly concerning the delayed passage of the 2026 Appropriation Bill. The government characterized the reports as misleading, asserting that the budget proposal is progressing through the necessary legislative steps.

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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.

In a statement, the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Onwuka Nzeshi, affirmed Governor Fubara's commitment to collaborating with the lawmakers for the state's advancement. "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," Nzeshi stated.

Nzeshi explained that the governor had submitted the 2026 budget proposal to the legislature, where it is currently under review according to established 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," he said. He added that the state has endured sufficient political challenges and should not be drawn into further controversies.

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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 clarification comes amid renewed attention on the relationship between Rivers State's executive and legislative branches. Expectations for a smoother working relationship, particularly regarding budget passage, had risen following Fubara's return to the political faction associated with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike. The government urged those promoting negative narratives to cease, emphasizing the need for peace and harmony for Rivers State's steady development.

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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.