The suspended governor of Rivers State, Siminialayi Fubara, has denied any connection to militant groups threatening the federal government over the state’s political crisis.
In a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Nelson Chukwudi, and released in Port Harcourt on Monday, Fubara expressed regret that some individuals were making efforts to associate him with militants.
He pointed out that communities where explosions were reported had dismissed claims of attacks on oil facilities, arguing that these allegations were aimed at tarnishing his image.
The statement read: **“Virtually all the fake videos have been linked to alleged militant groups in the State, with the creators of such content trying very hard to connect them to supporters of Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
“Already, the communities where these incidents are alleged to have occurred have reacted, dismissing any claims of explosions on oil and gas facilities in their domains, and reassuring that all critical government assets within their areas are safe, secure and efficiently functioning.
“For the avoidance of doubt, Governor Siminalayi Fubara has no link to any militant group, does not contemplate any such association, and has no reason to encourage any criminal group or elements, anywhere in the State or Niger Delta, to undertake any action inimical to the peace of the people or safety and security of oil and gas facilities, and by extension, the economy of the country.
“The Governor had repeatedly made it clear at every public event that the peace of the State is paramount to him, and that he would pay any price to secure and sustain peace in the State, as it is only in an atmosphere of peace and security that governance and development can thrive.”**
Fubara also warned against attacks on government infrastructure, urging criminals to stay away.
He added: “Governor Fubara vehemently warns purveyors of violence and economic sabotage to steer clear of the state… and bring those behind them to book.”
