Rivers Sole Administrator Announces 2025 Budget Plan Amid Growing Controversy

Port Harcourt, Nigeria – Rivers State Sole Administrator, Retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas, has revealed plans to introduce a new 2025 budget focused on healthcare, education, agriculture, and infrastructure, despite ongoing backlash over his undemocratic appointment and suspended governance in the oil-rich state.

Key Budget Priorities

During a meeting with Rivers State’s National Assembly caucus led by Senator Barinada Mpigi, Ibas outlined the proposed budget’s focus:

• Job creation through public works and tech-driven initiatives
• Critical infrastructure rehabilitation and expansion
• Agricultural modernization to boost food security
• Transparent process: Claims the budget will be “inclusive and expedited”

Political Context

The announcement comes amid:
✔ Widespread protests by civil society groups like Take-It-Back and the Niger Delta Congress
✔ Legal controversies following the Supreme Court’s voiding of the previous state budget
✔ Financial scrutiny as Ibas oversees N400 billion in state funds and N14 billion monthly LG allocations

Controversial Leadership

Ibas, appointed after President Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers, framed the budget as essential for “enduring peace.” However, critics argue:

• His unelected role undermines democratic norms
• The rushed budget lacks legislative oversight
• Funds could be misused without elected accountability

Next Steps

The administrator seeks National Assembly support to fast-track the budget, while opposition groups mobilize for sustained demonstrations. Observers warn the move risks exacerbating tensions in Nigeria’s volatile oil heartland.