By DocuNews Central | October 16, 2025

Port Harcourt, Nigeria — The Rivers State Government has nullified a massive ₦134 billion contract that was reportedly awarded under the tenure of former Sole Administrator Mr. Ibas, citing irregularities, lack of transparency, and gross violation of due process. The government stated that the decision is part of a larger effort to restore accountability and sanitize the state’s financial system.

Background: How the ₦134 Billion Contract Came Under Scrutiny

The controversial ₦134 billion contract was among several major infrastructural projects initiated under the sole administration of Mr. Ibas. According to sources within the Ministry of Works, the contract was awarded without the full approval of the State Executive Council and allegedly bypassed the Rivers State Public Procurement Board — a clear violation of the state’s procurement laws.

Reports suggest that the contract covered multiple infrastructural projects, including road construction, drainage, and government facility renovations. However, investigators discovered that the project documents were incomplete, and no verifiable progress was made despite significant financial disbursements.

Governor Fubara’s Administration Moves to Clean House

Governor Siminalayi Fubara, since assuming office, has been vocal about his administration’s commitment to transparency, fiscal responsibility, and the rule of law. The cancellation of the ₦134 billion contract, according to government insiders, aligns with his vision to restore credibility to the state’s procurement system.

“The Rivers State Government is determined to ensure that public funds are spent judiciously. The era of unapproved and inflated contracts is over.”

— Government Official

Reactions from Political Observers and Civil Society Groups

The announcement has generated widespread discussion across Rivers State’s political and civic landscape. Some civil society organizations have hailed the decision as a bold move toward accountability and good governance.

The Rivers Integrity Forum, a transparency advocacy group, commended the government’s decision, stating that the cancellation sends a strong message to corrupt officials and contractors.

“For too long, Rivers State has suffered under the weight of opaque contracts and unaccounted spending. If this administration can maintain this momentum, it will restore public trust and attract genuine investors.”

— Mrs. Nene Okoro, Rivers Integrity Forum

Contract Irregularities: What the Audit Report Revealed

An internal audit report obtained by DocuNews Central showed that the ₦134 billion contract was awarded through a non-competitive process, without the required approval from the State Executive Council. The report further noted that the contract was fragmented into multiple sub-projects, each designed to bypass financial scrutiny.

• The contractor had no verified track record of handling projects of such magnitude.
• Key project milestones were never met.
• The supervising ministry failed to enforce contractual obligations.
• There were discrepancies between the contract’s approved budget and actual disbursements.

Legal Experts Weigh In

Legal analysts say the nullification is valid under the Rivers State Public Procurement Law, which allows the government to cancel contracts that violate due process or were obtained through fraudulent means.

“Once it is established that a contract was awarded without compliance with procurement laws, it becomes null and void. The government not only has the right to cancel it but also to recover any funds disbursed.”

— Barrister Chinedu Woke

Public Reactions: Citizens Applaud, Demand More Transparency

Across Port Harcourt, residents expressed mixed feelings about the nullification. Many applauded the move against corruption, while others urged full transparency and public disclosure of all canceled contracts.

“This is a welcome development if it’s not politically motivated. Rivers people have suffered from abandoned projects that drain public funds. It’s time the truth comes out.”

— Mr. Ebube Igbokwe, Civil Servant

Political Implications: A Test of Fubara’s Leadership

The nullification of such a huge contract could reshape the political dynamics in Rivers State. Analysts believe it might spark tensions among loyalists of the previous administration who still occupy positions in the civil service.

“This decision positions the governor as a leader willing to confront corruption head-on. However, it may unsettle individuals who benefited from the old system. The real test will be whether the government can follow through with prosecution and recovery.”

— Dr. Tamuno Briggs, Political Analyst

The Way Forward: Government Promises Transparency and Accountability

In response to growing public interest, the Rivers State Government announced plans to make all contract reviews and audit findings publicly accessible. The administration also pledged to launch a digital procurement monitoring system to track all contracts in real time.

• Every contract must pass through proper approval channels.
• Payments will only be made after verified work completion.
• All awarded contracts will be published for public scrutiny.

Experts Call for Broader Anti-Corruption Framework

Experts insist that long-term change requires institutional reforms. Economic analyst Prof. Victor Nduka suggested that Rivers State establish an independent audit tribunal to monitor large-scale contracts and publish quarterly expenditure reports.

Public Procurement Law: What It Says About Contract Cancellation

The Rivers State Public Procurement Law (2018) empowers the government to cancel contracts awarded without due process, recover funds, and sanction officials involved in irregular awards. Section 45 states that any contract obtained through false pretenses or without State Executive Council approval is automatically nullified.

Conclusion: Rivers State Sets the Tone for Transparent Governance

The Rivers State Government’s decision to nullify the ₦134 billion contract awarded under Sole Administrator Ibas marks a turning point in the state’s governance. It sends a strong message that transparency, accountability, and integrity will define the new Rivers State.

As investigations continue, Rivers residents remain hopeful that Governor Fubara’s administration will keep its promise to rebuild public trust and promote good governance.

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