I resigned because we were spending without appropriation – Fubara’s commissioner

Alabo George-Kelly, former commissioner of works in Rivers State, explained his resignation from Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s cabinet, citing concerns over the state’s expenditure without proper budget allocation.

The budget for the 2024 fiscal year, approved by five lawmakers loyal to Fubara, was nullified by a federal high court in Abuja. The court instructed the governor to resubmit the budget to the appropriate house of assembly under Speaker Martin Amaewhule, an ally of Nyesom Wike, the minister of the federal capital territory (FCT).

As part of a peace agreement mediated by President Bola Tinubu to reconcile Wike and Fubara, it was agreed to resubmit the budget. However, this has not been executed yet.

In an interview with Channels Television, George-Kelly highlighted the breach of procurement law in awarding contracts without a budget in place, expressing concerns about potential legal repercussions and his loyalty to Wike.

He emphasized his unwavering allegiance to Wike, acknowledging the governor’s pivotal role in his career advancement and advocating for speaking truth to power.

Despite attempts to reach Joe Johnson, the commissioner for information in Rivers, for a response to George-Kelly’s claims, there was no immediate reply to calls or text messages.