Relief International Africa has commended the Rivers State Government for cancelling the controversial ₦134 billion contract for the renovation of the state secretariat complex.
Speaking on it, the Executive Director of the organization, Ambassador Green Isaac, described the government’s action as a decisive step toward accountability, transparency, and fiscal responsibility.
The group praised the administration for also demanding a refund of the ₦20 billion already disbursed to the contractor, calling it a reflection of commitment to good governance and the prudent use of public funds.
According to Relief International Africa, the contract awarded during the final days of a six-month State of Emergency was outside the legitimate powers of the former Sole Administrator and appeared to serve as a channel for misappropriating funds meant for genuine development.
The organization urged Governor Fubara and his team to conduct a comprehensive assessment of the current condition of the Secretariat complex before considering any re-award of the project, ensuring that due process and value for money are strictly observed.
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Relief International Africa further advised the state government to review all appointments made during the emergency period, especially those that did not follow democratic procedures.
“As a civil society organization committed to promoting accountability and participatory governance, we reaffirm our readiness to constructively engage and demand transparency from all arms of government,” Amb. Green concluded.
