Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has reiterated his administration’s commitment to transparency and prudent management of public resources, assuring residents that the state’s financial records remain clear, verifiable and intact.
The governor gave the assurance on Wednesday while commissioning the 14.2-kilometre Obodhi–Ozochi Road at the Ozochi Playground in Ahoada-East Local Government Area.
Governor Fubara disclosed that his administration left over ₦300 billion in the state’s coffers before the declaration of emergency rule and returned to meet the figure increased to about ₦600 billion. He stressed that comprehensive records of revenue, expenditure and ongoing projects were properly documented and would be made available to the public within the next six months.
“Accountability remains a core principle of my leadership. Nobody can take away my sincerity and genuineness,” the governor said. “I am not associated with anything fraudulent. Your money and the record of how your money is being spent are intact, and we are executing strong and impactful projects across the state.”
Describing the Obodhi–Ozochi Road as a critical intervention, Fubara said the project has significantly improved access and connectivity for communities in Ahoada-East, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to people-centred development.
He explained that the project was initiated in November 2022 by his predecessor following consultations aimed at strengthening political support in Ahoada-East and Ahoada-West, and was conceived as a strategic development initiative for the area. Upon assuming office, he said his administration ensured its completion and expanded the scope by extending the original design by four kilometres, bringing the total length to 14.2 kilometres.
“This is our way of saying thank you for the support of your son and for the love you have shown,” the governor said, acknowledging the role of leaders and stakeholders in the area in his emergence as governor.
Governor Fubara also expressed appreciation for the warm reception he received, describing the presentation of 14 cows by the community as a powerful symbol of unity and gratitude. He assured the people that his administration would positively consider their requests, including the proposed extension of the road.
The governor further called for sustained political support, urging stakeholders to convert the massive turnout at the event into future electoral strength, particularly towards the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Earlier, the Permanent Secretary of the Rivers State Ministry of Works, Dr Austin Ezekiel-Hart, said the Obodhi–Ozochi Road and Bridge Project spans 14.2 kilometres with a carriageway width of 7.3 metres, adding that the construction meets established engineering standards.
In his welcome address, the Chairman of Ahoada-East Local Government Area, Hon. Solomon Abuba Ochoma, described the road and bridge as symbols of access, connectivity and opportunity. He said the project marks the end of years of hardship and the beginning of improved mobility, safer transportation and increased economic activities for the benefiting communities.
Ochoma commended Governor Fubara for completing the project, describing it as clear evidence that governance is a continuum and that sustainable development thrives on consistency.
