Rivers monarch lauds Fubara on budget presentation

The chairman of the Supreme Forum of Ikwerre Government Recognised Traditional Rulers, the Eze Oha Evo III of Evo Kingdom, Woji, Prof. Leslie N. Eke, JP, Eze Woji XII, Eze Gbakagbaka, has commended Rivers state governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, for presenting the 2026 appropriation bill to the state House of Assembly.

He described the development as a demonstration of statesmanship and commitment to democratic governance.

Eze Eke said this when he spoke with newsmen at his palace in Woji community, Obio/Akpor local government area, of the state over the weekend.

The revered monarch also called on both the executive and the Rivers state House of Assembly to sustain the prevailing atmosphere of peace, mutual respect and cooperation in the overall interest of the state, adding that harmonious relationships among the arms of government remain essential for accelerated development.

King Eke noted that the governor’s appearance before the assembly to present the 2026 budget underscored his commitment to constitutional governance, accountability and inclusive leadership, adding that Rivers people expect the cordial relationship now existing between both arms of government to be preserved.

The traditional ruler said peace and political stability are indispensable ingredients for economic growth, investment and sustainable development, urging all political actors to place the interest of Rivers state above personal and partisan considerations.

Governor Fubara, while presenting the 2026 budget estimate to the House on Friday, proposed a total expenditure of N1.854 trillion, christened the “Budget of Resilience for Growth and Development.”