Suspended Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has strongly denied any involvement with militant groups, cautioning against attempts to incite violence or disrupt the state’s economy in his name. His statement comes in response to a series of fake videos circulating on social media, which allegedly depict explosions at oil and gas installations in the state.
In a press release issued on Monday, Fubara’s Chief Press Secretary, Nelson Chukwudi, addressed the trending videos, calling them “fake” and “malicious.” The videos, which have sparked widespread concern, suggest militant attacks on oil and gas facilities in Rivers State, but Fubara was quick to dismiss them as baseless.
“We are once again drawing attention to the circulation of fake and fabricated videos purporting to show explosions on oil and gas facilities in Rivers State,” the statement read. “These videos have been linked to alleged militant groups, with some trying to falsely connect them to Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s supporters.”
The governor’s office emphasized that the videos have been discredited by local communities, which have reassured the public of the safety and security of all critical government assets in their regions. “The communities where these incidents are alleged to have occurred have reacted, dismissing any claims of explosions. They have also confirmed that all vital government assets within their areas are safe, secure, and functioning effectively,” the statement noted.
Fubara took a firm stance against those attempting to create unrest through these misleading videos. He pointed out that no explosion or attack had taken place, and described the content as an effort to disrupt the peace of the state. “These videos are clearly designed to misinform the people and damage the reputation of Rivers State,” he said. “The creators of these fake videos must be investigated, and those behind them should face appropriate legal action.”
The governor also took the opportunity to clarify his position on militant groups. He categorically stated that he has no ties to any such groups and would never support activities that could undermine the peace or stability of the region. “Governor Siminalayi Fubara has no connection to any militant group, and he does not condone any criminal activity that could threaten the safety or security of oil and gas facilities, or disrupt the national economy,” the statement read.
Fubara further emphasized his commitment to peace, stressing that maintaining law and order in Rivers State is one of his highest priorities. “I have always said that the peace of this state is paramount. I am willing to do whatever it takes to ensure that peace and security are sustained,” he stated.
The governor also issued a stern warning to anyone trying to incite violence or use his name for unlawful purposes. “I strongly warn anyone involved in inciting violence or economic sabotage to stay away from Rivers State,” Fubara asserted. “There is no room for those who seek to exploit the current political situation to create chaos in our state.”
Fubara’s statement concluded with a call to action for the relevant authorities. He urged security agencies to take swift action to investigate and address the spread of false information online. “Security agencies must act decisively to stop these fake videos, which are meant to paint the state in a negative light,” he urged. “The perpetrators of this misinformation should be held accountable for their actions.”
