Rivers Crisis: Accountant General Collapses as Fubara Confronts Officials

Rivers State descended into fresh drama on Friday as Governor Siminalayi Fubara confronted senior civil servants over alleged betrayal during the state’s recent political crisis. The tense meeting at Government House saw the Accountant General, James Epobari Ngochindo, collapse after sharp criticism from the governor. He was rushed to the Rivers State University Teaching Hospital, where doctors confirmed he suffered a dangerous spike in blood pressure but was in stable condition.

Also at the session, the newly confirmed Head of Service, Dr. Iyingi Brown, broke down in tears as the governor questioned her role under Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas (rtd), who ruled Rivers during six months of emergency rule declared by President Bola Tinubu. Fubara accused top bureaucrats of colluding with the former sole administrator to weaken his government and divert state resources.

Dr. Brown’s controversial elevation by Admiral Ibas, despite being far down the seniority roll, has drawn criticism. On Friday, Fubara dissolved the state pensions board, widely seen as the first step in reversing Ibas-era appointments and decisions.

Civil society groups have also demanded answers on ₦716 billion reportedly spent during the emergency administration, while opposition figures are calling for a judicial probe. “This is not about politics but accountability,” said Celestine Nwoka of the Rivers Integrity Network.

Analysts warn that Fubara now faces a delicate balancing act, particularly as he and Dr. Brown share Opobo origins. “The credibility of his administration is on the line,” said political analyst Judith Wariboko. For many residents, the collapse and tears at Government House underscore just how fragile Rivers politics has become .