Fubara Denies Rift With Rivers Assembly Over 2026 Budget

Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has dismissed reports of a fresh disagreement between his administration and the State House of Assembly regarding the 2026 Appropriation Bill, insisting the budget is progressing through the required legislative process. The governor's clarification, issued on August 12, 2026, comes amid ongoing scrutiny of the relationship between the executive and legislative arms of government in the state.

In a statement from his Chief Press Secretary, Onwuka Nzeshi, the government described reports of a rift as false and misleading. Nzeshi stated that Governor Fubara is not at loggerheads with lawmakers but is working closely with them to serve the people of Rivers State. The 2026 budget proposal, tagged "Budget of Resilience for Growth and Development," was formally presented to the House of Assembly on July 10, 2026, and is currently undergoing legislative scrutiny. The government expressed confidence that lawmakers would complete the process and pass the proposal.

The proposed budget provides for total expenditure of approximately N1.854 trillion, with over N1.4 trillion allocated for capital projects. The plan focuses on infrastructure, human...