Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State revealed that he inherited a substantial debt load from the previous Nyesom Wike administration. Fubara made this disclosure during the commissioning of the Aleto-Ogale-Ebubu-Eteo Road, also known as Old Bori Road, in the Eleme Local Government Area of the state.
The governor stated that many projects initiated under the Federal Capital Territory Minister were not adequately funded, leading to contractors seeking outstanding payments. While Governor Fubara did not provide an exact figure for the debt, he felt compelled to address the issue due to pressure from detractors.
Fubara emphasized his commitment to transparency by intending to accompany project commissioning with a “white paper” detailing project funding. He clarified that his administration has not engaged in conflicts with the federal government but has faced challenges due to internal interests.
The reconstruction of the Old Bori road aims to provide an alternative to the deteriorated section of the Eleme axis of the East-West road. Fubara highlighted the importance of Eleme in his personal journey, expressing gratitude for starting his career there.
He disclosed that the contract for the project was awarded to CCECC in August 2023 by his administration. Fubara assured that the contractor had been paid in full, amounting to N6.7 billion, demonstrating his administration’s commitment to debt clearance.
Fubara underscored the issue of accumulated debts from the previous government as a significant challenge his administration faces. Despite this, he remains determined to address infrastructural needs and fulfill commitments to contractors.