Fubara Responds to Tinubu’s Allegations on Rivers State Crisis

Suspended Governor of Rivers State, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has reacted to the recent allegations made by President Bola Tinubu during a national broadcast in which a state of emergency was declared in Rivers State. The president had accused Fubara of failing in governance, particularly highlighting the demolition of the state’s House of Assembly on December 13, 2023, and its alleged non-reconstruction 14 months later. Tinubu also claimed Fubara had collapsed the legislative arm to govern without oversight and ignored attempts to mediate the political crisis. Additionally, he accused the governor of tolerating threats from militants and not disowning those who allegedly vandalised pipelines.

In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Nelson Chukwudi, Fubara dismissed the allegations as inaccurate and based on misinformation. He asserted that the Rivers State House of Assembly complex is currently under reconstruction and is about 80 percent complete. He explained that the decision to demolish the complex followed expert advice after safety concerns were raised and that the rebuilding is part of a broader effort to modernise the legislative environment.

Fubara also strongly denied any involvement with militant threats or pipeline vandalism, stating that his administration has consistently worked to discourage criminal activity and promote peace. He linked the unrest in the state to inflammatory remarks made by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, during a live media chat where Wike allegedly made disparaging comments about the Ijaw people. Fubara said Wike’s refusal to apologise sparked anger among Niger Delta groups, including the Ijaw National Congress and its youth wing.

The governor reaffirmed his commitment to peace and security, noting that his administration has significantly invested in equipping security agencies. These efforts include the provision of residential accommodations, operational vehicles, gunboats, and helicopters to support the protection of oil installations. He also highlighted his contributions as a member of the Presidential Committee on the Protection of Oil Installations.

Fubara further referenced the peaceful conduct of the local government elections held on October 5, 2024, contrasting it with alleged violent attacks by supporters of the FCT Minister on local government offices. He urged security agencies to focus on the true sources of violence in the state and conduct thorough investigations to hold the actual perpetrators accountable.

He concluded that the claim of him “telegraphing attacks” on oil pipelines contradicts his long-standing advocacy for peace and stability, noting that Rivers State has seen a rise in oil production and revenue contributions to the Federation Account since he assumed office.