Ensure N78bn refunded to Rivers is accounted for, group tells Buhari

A group known as the Network for the Defence of Democratic and Good Governance (NDDGG) has asked President Muhammadu Buhari to ensure that the N78 billion refunded to Rivers state by the federal government is accounted for.

Buhari had approved the refund of the money spent on repairing federal roads in the state.

Last week, Nyesom Wike, governor of Rivers, thanked Buhari for the refund and invited him to Rivers to “see what we have accomplished for the state and our people with the money.”

Addressing a press conference on Wednesday, Sobomabo Jackrich, NDDGG founder, said Buhari has shown commitment to development to the Niger Delta, particularly Rivers state.

“That the President, Muhammadu Buhari who has continued to show commitment to the development of the Niger Delta and particularly Rivers state, should kindly ensure, although Rivers state government is not an appendage of the federal government, he should ensure that monies allocated to the state particularly the 78.9 billion naira is accounted for and does not continue to develop wings.

“That whereas the Rivers state government does not have any accessible budget since the inception of Governor Nyesom Wike in 2015 till date and whereas the budget of Rivers state 2020 if any, that the government should publish details as to how and what projects the 78.9 billion would be used for in line with the Public Procurement Laws. This will enable interested watchers to monitor the process to avoid irregularities and diversion of the money.”