The administration of suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State has firmly denied allegations that he failed to address 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 unfounded, attributing them to misinformation provided to the Presidency by individuals who neglected their duty to deliver accurate reports.
Chukwudi asserted that Fubara has consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to ensuring peace and protecting critical oil infrastructure.
He pointed out that the recent unrest in the Niger Delta was largely triggered by controversial comments made by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, during a media interview. Wike allegedly minimized the influence of the Ijaw ethnic group in national politics, sparking strong reactions from Ijaw leaders, youth groups, and militants, some of whom called for the minister to issue an apology.
Chukwudi stressed that Fubara has always been a vocal advocate for the protection of oil installations. He referenced Fubara’s previous involvement in the Presidential Committee on the Protection of Oil Installations and his ongoing public appeals 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.”
State Assembly Complex
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 condemned the deteriorating condition of the facility and dismissed calls for government intervention.
He said following the October 29, 2023, incident that led to the demolition, the Rivers State Government initiated reconstruction efforts, with the project now nearing 80% completion.
The statement also 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 by individuals allegedly loyal to the FCT minister.
Chukwudi called on security agencies to investigate the real perpetrators of violence in the state, cautioning against misdirected 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.