A former chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Rivers State, Felix Ewor, has accused Governor Siminalayi Fubara of engaging in what he described as illegal and unconstitutional spending of public funds, a claim that has further intensified political tensions in the state.
Ewor, who spoke during a media interaction, alleged that the governor has continued to authorize expenditures without the approval of the Rivers State House of Assembly, contrary to constitutional provisions. According to him, any form of public spending carried out without legislative backing amounts to a violation of due process and undermines democratic governance.
The former PDP chieftain argued that the ongoing political crisis in the state has not suspended constitutional requirements, stressing that the executive arm cannot lawfully function in isolation from the legislature. He maintained that regardless of disagreements between the governor and lawmakers, financial decisions must still follow established legal procedures.
Ewor further claimed that funds are being disbursed under the guise of emergency governance, insisting that such justification does not excuse what he termed “persistent breaches of the law.” He warned that continued disregard for legislative oversight could expose the state to legal and financial risks in the future.
According to him, the role of the House of Assembly in budgetary approval is central to accountability and transparency, adding that bypassing the lawmakers weakens democratic institutions. He urged relevant authorities to closely monitor financial activities in the state to ensure compliance with constitutional standards.
The former party chairman also accused Governor Fubara of misleading the public by portraying the spending as necessary governance measures. He stated that no governor has the authority to spend public funds arbitrarily, regardless of prevailing political circumstances or internal disputes.
Ewor called on anti-corruption agencies and oversight institutions to investigate the alleged illegal expenditures, saying such actions are necessary to protect public resources and uphold the rule of law. He emphasized that accountability should not be selective and that all public office holders must be held to the same standards.
Reacting to the allegations, supporters of the governor have dismissed the claims as politically motivated, arguing that the administration has been operating within the limits of the law. They maintain that the governor’s actions are guided by the need to keep government functioning amid legislative challenges and ongoing political instability.
While the Rivers State Government has not issued a detailed response to the specific accusations, officials close to the administration insist that all expenditures are in the interest of the people and aimed at sustaining essential services and development projects across the state.
Political analysts note that the allegations reflect the deepening rift within Rivers State’s political elite, particularly among former allies within the PDP. They say the dispute is part of a broader power struggle that has continued to dominate political discourse in the state since the fallout between key political actors.
As the controversy unfolds, observers warn that prolonged political conflict and public accusations could further strain governance and public trust. They urge all parties involved to prioritize dialogue, constitutional order, and institutional integrity to prevent the situation from escalating further.
The allegations by Ewor add another layer to the ongoing political uncertainty in Rivers State, raising fresh questions about governance, accountability, and the balance of power within the state’s political system.
