Suspended Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has raised concerns over false reports of pipeline explosions in the state, urging security agencies to investigate and take action against those spreading misleading information.
In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Nelson Chukwudi, Fubara dismissed viral videos of alleged attacks on oil and gas facilities as “fake and malicious,” warning against efforts to incite unrest. He reiterated his commitment to ensuring peace in the state.
This statement comes after a sociopolitical group, the Simplicity Movement, called on the Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd.), and security agencies to probe recent reports of pipeline explosions in the region. Specifically, the group requested an investigation into the alleged explosion at the Trans Niger Pipeline in Bodo, Gokana Local Government Area, which had been widely circulated after a section of the facility was said to have caught fire.
On March 18, 2025, President Bola Tinubu declared emergency rule in Rivers State, suspending Fubara, Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu, and the state lawmakers following three pipeline explosions in two days. The blasts occurred after militants reportedly threatened to resume hostilities if Fubara was impeached by the Martin Amaewhule-led Assembly, which is loyal to former Governor Nyesom Wike. To prevent further unrest, President Tinubu appointed Ibas as sole administrator of the state.
Fubara has denied any association with militant groups or plans to engage in such activities. He strongly condemned those attempting to incite violence or economic sabotage under the guise of supporting him.
The suspended governor also called on security agencies to investigate the fake videos and take necessary actions to apprehend those responsible.
