Rivers First Movement Demands Audit of Finances, Accuses Leaders of “Cartelising” Rivers Wealth
A political advocacy group, the Rivers First Movement (RFM), has called for an independent investigation and financial audit of projects executed in Rivers State between 29 May 2015 and 31 January 2026, alleging widespread mismanagement and declining living standards.
Speaking at a press conference in Port Harcourt on Monday, 16 February 2026, the group said the socio-economic and political trajectory of the oil-rich state had taken a “disturbing turn”.
The movement accused political leaders of prioritising personal ambitions over collective development, claiming that public resources had been concentrated in the hands of a few individuals while the wider population faces economic hardship.
Rising Unemployment and Public Services Concerns
Citing data from Nigeria’s National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), the group said Rivers State accounts for approximately 13.4% of the country’s total unemployment figure. It argued that this reflects what it described as the current administration’s inability to reduce joblessness.
The RFM also raised concerns about the condition of public infrastructure, alleging that schools and hospitals across the state are in poor condition despite significant budgetary allocations. It further claimed that insecurity and waste management challenges have worsened in recent years.
Political Disputes Criticised
The group criticised the ongoing political tensions involving former governor Nyesom Wike and the current governor Siminalayi Fubara, alleging that their disagreements are driven by personal political interests rather than the welfare of residents.
It also referenced President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in its remarks, suggesting that national political dynamics have influenced developments in the state.
The RFM questioned the recent dissolution of the State Executive Council by the governor, alleging that it was intended to conceal details of political agreements. The state government has not publicly responded to these specific claims.
Call to Action
Describing itself as a “revolutionary political movement”, the Rivers First Movement said it intends to mobilise residents across all local government areas, including those in the diaspora, to demand what it termed socio-political and economic emancipation.
The group called on youths, women, elders and residents — both indigenes and non-indigenes — to support what it described as a “rescue mission” for the state.
It concluded by demanding an immediate independent audit of all financial transactions related to state projects over the past decade, stating that “Rivers people deserve to know” how public funds have been spent.
There has been no immediate reaction from the Rivers State Government to the allegations.
