A report from the Coalition of Human Rights Monitoring Group has revealed that Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State was wrongly implicated in security issues that led to the declaration of a state of emergency in the state.
In a nationwide address last Tuesday, President Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers State, expressing his “great concern over the political crisis” and accusing Governor Fubara of demolishing the State House of Assembly building. As a result, Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and all elected members of the Rivers State House of Assembly were suspended for an initial six months. A retired Vice Admiral, Ibokette Ibas, was appointed as Administrator to oversee the state during the emergency period.
The decision has drawn significant criticism from various sectors, with many Nigerians questioning its legality.
The Coalition of Human Rights Monitoring Group, in its report on the crisis in Rivers State, stated that there is no evidence linking Governor Fubara to the militant groups responsible for pipeline vandalism and security breaches in the state, contrary to the accusations. Unveiled at a press conference in Abuja on March 26, the report dismissed the claims of Fubara’s involvement with militant groups as “politically motivated fabrications” aimed at destabilizing his administration.
The Coalition’s investigation found no evidence of financial transactions or operational ties between the state government and known militant factions. The report also highlighted the role of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, in exacerbating tensions in Rivers State through inflammatory statements.
The Coalition recommended the immediate cessation of political hostilities, the withdrawal of security forces unlawfully deployed in Rivers State, and the initiation of independent investigations into the militancy allegations.
“It is clear to us, and to the world, that Governor Siminalayi Fubara has no verifiable links to militant groups in Rivers State or the wider Niger Delta region. The allegations against him appear to be driven by political motives, fueled by power struggles and personal rivalries rather than any factual basis. This report has thoroughly debunked these unfounded accusations, revealing them as politically motivated fabrications,” the Coalition said.
“The true instigators of instability in Rivers State are those prioritizing personal vendettas over public welfare. It is crucial for both Nigerian and international stakeholders to understand the dangerous consequences of using baseless accusations for political gain.”
The Coalition further emphasized that the attempt to tarnish Governor Fubara’s reputation is not only an attack on his personal integrity but also an assault on the democratic values Nigeria claims to uphold. They also condemned the reckless statements made by Minister Nyesom Wike, which have only fueled regional tensions, urging public officials to promote national unity instead of deepening division.
“The people of Rivers State deserve peace, stability, and development, not a manufactured crisis born of political greed. As defenders of democracy, we stand firm in our support for truth and justice,” the report concluded.
Governor Fubara’s exoneration from these false allegations is crucial not only for his personal reputation but also for the defense of democratic principles. His commitment to peace, security, and good governance stands in stark contrast to the baseless claims against him. The security challenges in Rivers State are rooted in broader historical struggles for equity and justice in the Niger Delta. The international community, civil society, and all democracy advocates must unite to prevent Rivers State from descending into chaos.