In a robust defense against serious allegations, the suspended Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, has firmly rejected claims made by the federal government, through the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, accusing him of telegraphing attacks on oil pipelines in the state.
Addressing these accusations head-on, Fubara called the allegations “false” and “baseless,” emphasizing that they misrepresent both his character and his administration’s commitment to peace.
In a statement released by his suspended Chief Press Secretary, Nelson Chukwudi, Fubara elaborated on the matter, questioning why the federal government, aware of the real perpetrators, had not taken action against the criminal groups behind such threats.
Fubara, who has long been a vocal advocate for peace, stated: “It is absolutely untrue that someone who has consistently preached peace, even in the face of extreme provocations, would suddenly begin ‘telegraphing attacks on oil pipelines.’ I have dedicated myself to maintaining stability and security for the people of Rivers State, not to undermining it.”
He further detailed that the federal government’s accusations were rooted in a misunderstanding, or perhaps misrepresentation, of his stance on violence and security. “There are misleading claims that I failed to deter criminal groups and militants from making threats against oil installations in the state. These allegations not only lack merit but also fail to recognize the broader political dynamics at play.”
Fubara pointed to remarks made by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Chief Nyesom Wike, which ignited widespread backlash from Ijaw groups, chiefs, and various Niger Delta stakeholders.
Wike’s comments, which dismissed Ijaws as a powerless minority and suggested that other ethnic groups could blow up pipelines, were seen as a direct insult to the people of the region. His refusal to apologize for these comments only further heightened tensions, according to Fubara.
The embattled governor made it clear that his administration has been a staunch advocate for the protection of oil infrastructure. “From the outset, I have emphasized the importance of securing our state’s oil facilities. In fact, I was a key member of the Presidential Committee on the Protection of Oil Installations. I’ve repeatedly called for collaboration to safeguard our natural resources, and my administration has been proactive in ensuring peace.”
Additionally, Fubara addressed another allegation — that he had failed to rebuild the Rivers State House of Assembly complex after its demolition. The governor clarified that the demolition was a necessary decision based on expert advice and the dilapidated state of the building. “It was the former governor and now FCT minister who previously criticized the condition of the Assembly complex.
In fact, he challenged the lawmakers to take responsibility for the poor state of the building during the commissioning of the Assembly Quarters in 2022. It is now nearly 80% complete, with a state-of-the-art structure taking shape in its place.”
In a pointed remark, Fubara also reminded the public of the peaceful conduct of the local government elections in October 2024, highlighting that despite violent attacks on facilities by FCT Minister Wike’s supporters, there were no retaliatory actions from his supporters. He called on security agencies to focus on the true instigators of violence, who have consistently targeted his administration’s supporters and infrastructure.
“The security forces must identify and hold accountable the real perpetrators of these violent acts. These individuals have repeatedly sought to destabilize the state, and it is critical that they are brought to justice swiftly and without bias,” Fubara concluded.
The case continues to unfold, with the Governor remaining adamant in his commitment to peace and the development of Rivers State. As the situation develops, Fubara’s position appears clear: he will not be deterred by baseless accusations and remains steadfast in his pursuit of a stable, prosperous future for the people of the state.
