The proposed allocations in Rivers State’s 2025 budget, overseen by the state’s administrator, retired Vice Admiral IBOK ETE-IBAS, have sparked widespread condemnation. Critics describe the figures as outrageously excessive, raising concerns over misappropriation and mismanagement.
In particular, the House of Representatives raised questions on Monday over the proposed N24 billion for CCTV cameras to be installed at the State Government House, N30 billion allocated for the purchase of gunboats, and N23 billion set aside for contingency reserves. Lawmakers demanded justification for such large sums, questioning their necessity and transparency.
Former aide to the immediate past governor of Rivers State, Nyesom Wike, and Rivers indigene now based in Canada, ORAYE SAINT FRANKLIN, called the budgeting of N77 billion for these three items “scandalous.” He urged a thorough investigation into the figures proposed, emphasizing the need for accountability.
Adding his voice, rights activist CHARLES JAJA commended the lawmakers for exposing what he described as brazen corruption by the state’s sole administrator, retired Vice Admiral IBOK ETE-IBAS.
Meanwhile, residents of Port Harcourt have expressed outrage over the proposed allocations, describing them as “wicked” and “outrageous,” further fueling calls for transparency and proper oversight in the state’s budget planning.
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