Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has refuted claims by the Federal Government that he sponsored attacks on oil installations by suspected militants.
In a statement issued on Thursday by his Chief Press Secretary, Nelson Chukwudi, Fubara described the allegations as baseless and an attempt to mislead the public. He also dismissed claims that he failed to rebuild the state House of Assembly complex after its demolition, stating that the decision was based on expert advice due to structural concerns.
The governor’s response follows President Bola Tinubu’s remarks while declaring a state of emergency in Rivers, accusing Fubara of inaction regarding attacks on oil pipelines and labeling him a despot.
Fubara, however, blamed the unrest on comments made by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, alleging that Wike’s remarks against the Ijaw people fueled tensions.
“Our attention has been drawn to false narratives suggesting that Governor Fubara did nothing to prevent attacks on oil installations in the state,” the statement read.
“The threats by some groups were triggered by the Minister of the FCT, Chief Nyesom Wike, during a live media chat where he dismissed the Ijaw nation as a minority without political influence,” he added.
The governor reaffirmed his commitment to peace and the protection of oil facilities, citing his past role in the Presidential Committee on the Protection of Oil Installations. He also highlighted his administration’s efforts in supporting security agencies with operational resources, including vehicles, gunboats, and helicopters.
On the Assembly complex, Fubara stated that his decision to demolish the building followed expert recommendations. He recalled that Wike, as governor, had previously criticized the poor state of the facility and rejected calls to renovate it.
“The Assembly complex was in a deteriorated state, and after expert assessments, it was necessary to rebuild a modern facility, which is now nearing completion,” the statement noted.
Fubara further alleged that attacks on government facilities had been orchestrated by his political detractors, urging security agencies to investigate and bring the culprits to justice.
He maintained that his administration has consistently advocated peace and non-violence, despite provocations, and dismissed claims linking him to acts of sabotage.
