By Peter Omopo
The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has called for transparency and accountability over the alleged spending of more than ₦302 billion by the administration of Ibok-Ete Ibas, the sole administrator of Rivers State.
In a statement issued on Sunday, SERAP said documents presented before the Rivers State High Court in Port Harcourt by the state’s Accountant-General and Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning indicated that over ₦302 billion was spent between March and August 2025.
According to the organisation, the funds included allocations from the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) and other receipts. It noted that FAAC inflows during the period stood at over ₦253.48 billion, while other revenues amounted to about ₦44.87 billion, bringing total receipts to approximately ₦298.35 billion.
SERAP explained that the figures were contained in court filings related to a Freedom of Information suit it instituted against the state authorities, seeking details of public expenditure. The case, filed in October 2025, is pending before Justice S.H. Aprioku.
The group said exhibits attached to the counter-affidavit—comprising bank statements and government expenditure records—revealed that total spending slightly exceeded ₦302 billion within the six-month period.
Breakdowns from the documents showed that over ₦112.4 billion was spent on salaries, pensions, and overheads, while about ₦163.44 billion was allocated to ministries, departments, and agencies. Of that amount, more than ₦106 billion was reportedly disbursed in August alone.
The records also indicated that about ₦26 billion was used for loan servicing, alongside roughly ₦491 million spent on bank charges.
SERAP further highlighted multiple transfers to Government House, with payments ranging from millions to several billions of naira, including a single transfer of ₦4.27 billion recorded in August.
The organisation noted discrepancies in some project allocations, including funds earmarked for CCTV installation at the Government House for which no expenditure was recorded. It also cited variations between approved sums and actual spending on construction, rehabilitation, and equipment projects.
SERAP said it is currently analysing the documents to determine whether the information provided fully satisfies its request or if further legal steps would be necessary.
The group is seeking a court declaration affirming its right to access the information under the Freedom of Information Act and relevant constitutional provisions.
The matter has been adjourned to May 19, 2026, for further hearing.
