Reps Demand Clarity on Rivers’ N1.48 Trillion Budget—N24 Billion CCTV Allocation

Port Harcourt, Nigeria 

In a charged session of the House of Representatives, Nigerian lawmakers have demanded a full breakdown of Rivers State’s N1.48 trillion 2025 budget, zeroing in on a controversial N24 billion allocation for CCTV cameras. The request comes amid mounting public concern over transparency and the cost-effectiveness of government spending during a period of economic hardship.

A now-viral image from the session—showing a tense exchange between a civilian official and a military officer—has become a symbol of the growing tension surrounding the state’s fiscal decisions.

Budget Breakdown Under Scrutiny

The budget, recently passed by the Senate, includes:

• ₦120.8 billion for debt servicing

• ₦287.38 billion for recurrent spending

• ₦1.077 trillion for capital projects

However, the ₦24 billion reserved for CCTV deployment in the state’s urban and suburban areas has ignited debate, with observers citing World Bank benchmarks that suggest a complete smart surveillance system typically costs between $10–15 million—or roughly ₦15–22 billion at current exchange rates.

Fiscal Pressure Meets Public Anger

Nigeria’s national debt-to-revenue ratio, now above 90% according to the IMF, has amplified concerns about fiscal responsibility. Rivers State mirrors this trend, with a substantial chunk of its budget dedicated to debt servicing.

Online reactions on X (formerly Twitter) reflect public disillusionment:

• @realjoe_joe17: “The day Nigerians wake up from their slumber, these politicians will have nowhere to run.”

• @Nithsmit: “Give the House of Reps their share, and they’ll increase it to ₦50 billion.”

• @lovandjoy605: “I hope the CCTV cameras will cover the nooks and crannies of the state.”

While some see the cameras as a potential security asset, others view the figure as another instance of budget padding.

Military Oversight Raises Questions

Adding to the controversy, the session featured Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd.), appointed Sole Administrator of Rivers State by President Bola Tinubu after the March 2025 declaration of a state of emergency. His presence signals federal oversight during a volatile political standoff between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the state House of Assembly.

The Supreme Court had previously nullified Fubara’s 2025 budget, paving the way for direct federal intervention. While critics argue that the appointment of a military figure undermines civil governance, supporters call it a stabilizing move amid legislative dysfunction and deepening insecurity.

Global Standards vs. Local Realities

According to Maximize Market Research, the global CCTV market stood at $19.01 billion in 2024 and is projected to hit $45.11 billion by 2032. While high costs and privacy debates persist globally, the scale of Rivers’ CCTV budget appears exaggerated in light of infrastructural deficiencies and a history of poor accountability.

Calls for an independent audit have intensified, with civil society groups urging both the federal government and anti-corruption agencies to ensure transparency in contract awards and spending.

What’s Next for Rivers State?

With legislative scrutiny intensifying, the final outcome of the budget review could set the tone for state-level fiscal accountability nationwide. Observers are watching closely to see if this marks a turning point in curbing inflated public contracts or merely another missed opportunity.

As lawmakers demand answers and citizens grow increasingly vocal, News House will continue to follow this developing story, offering in-depth updates on how this budget battle unfolds.

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