The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has criticised Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, over what he described as a delay in the presentation of the state budget, accusing him of focusing more on political ambitions than governance.

Wike made the remarks on Wednesday, alleging that the Rivers State government had yet to submit its budget to the State House of Assembly, a situation he said could hinder effective governance and service delivery in the state.

He further claimed that instead of addressing pressing administrative responsibilities, the governor was already preoccupied with plans for a second term in office.

According to Wike, such an approach could negatively impact development in Rivers State if not properly managed, stressing that governance should take priority over political considerations.

The comments add to the ongoing political tension between both leaders, whose relationship has remained strained since Fubara assumed office in 2023. The disagreement has also contributed to divisions within the Rivers State political structure, particularly between factions of the House of Assembly.

The Rivers State government has yet to issue an official response to Wike’s latest allegations as of the time of this report.