The administration of suspended Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has firmly denied allegations that he failed to prevent militant threats and attacks on oil installations in the state.
In a statement released on Thursday, Fubara’s Chief Press Secretary, Nelson Chukwudi, dismissed the claims as baseless, attributing them to misinformation provided to the Presidency by individuals who failed in their duty to deliver accurate reports.
According to Chukwudi, Fubara remains committed to maintaining peace and protecting vital oil infrastructure. He argued that recent tensions in the Niger Delta stemmed from controversial remarks made by Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, during a media interview.
“Wike allegedly downplayed the influence of the Ijaw ethnic group in national politics, triggering strong reactions from Ijaw leaders, youth groups, and militants, some of whom demanded an apology,” Chukwudi stated.
He also highlighted Fubara’s past role in the Presidential Committee on the Protection of Oil Installations and his continued advocacy for peace and economic stability in the region.
“As a responsible leader, Governor Fubara has continuously invested in security agencies, providing modern equipment, vehicles, gunboats, and even helicopters to support law enforcement efforts in the state,” the statement read. “His unwavering commitment to peace has contributed to increased oil production and revenue for the country since assuming office on May 29, 2023.”
Addressing concerns about the demolition of the State House of Assembly Chambers in Port Harcourt, Chukwudi explained that the decision was based on expert recommendations.
He recalled that during his tenure as governor, Wike had himself criticized the deteriorating condition of the facility and dismissed calls for government intervention.
Following the October 29, 2023, incident that led to the demolition, the Rivers State Government initiated reconstruction efforts, which Chukwudi noted were now nearly 80% complete.
The statement further pointed to the peaceful local government elections held on October 5, 2024, as evidence of Fubara’s commitment to stability. However, it condemned violent attacks on council secretariats, allegedly carried out by individuals loyal to the FCT minister.
Chukwudi urged security agencies to investigate the true perpetrators of violence in the state, warning against misplaced accusations against Fubara.
“It is false to suggest that Governor Fubara, who has consistently preached peace even in the face of provocation, would endorse attacks on oil pipelines or any form of violence,” he concluded.
