The Rivers State Government has disclosed that over N302 billion was expended during the six-month tenure of Ibok-Ete Ibas as sole administrator of the state.
The figures were presented before the Rivers State High Court in Port Harcourt by the state accountant-general and the ministry of budget and economic planning, in response to a freedom of information suit filed by the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project.
According to court documents, the state received more than N253.48 billion from the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) between March and August 2025, with total inflows, including other revenues, reaching approximately N298.35 billion.
The filings, supported by detailed financial records and expenditure documents, revealed various allocations and spending patterns across sectors. However, the government noted that although N28 billion was approved for CCTV installation at the State House, no funds were ultimately spent on the project.
“The Defendants/Respondents do not contest SERAP’s right to access information under the Freedom of Information Act and has no intention whatsoever of withholding the requested documents,” the affidavit stated.
The government added that it had complied with SERAP’s request by providing the relevant records.
Speaking on the development, Kolawole Oluwadare of SERAP said the organisation is currently reviewing the extensive documents to determine whether full compliance has been achieved or if further action is required.
Preliminary findings indicate multiple high-value transactions, including transfers ranging from N1.8 million to N4.27 billion, with a significant portion of spending directed towards salaries, pensions, ministries, and loan servicing.
The records also showed that over N112 billion was spent on recurrent expenditures, while more than N163 billion was allocated to ministries, departments, and agencies.
The case, which seeks to affirm SERAP’s right to access public financial records, has been adjourned to May 19, 2026, for further hearing.
The disclosures relate to the period of emergency rule imposed by Bola Tinubu in March 2025, during which Ibas was appointed to oversee the state’s affairs.