A coalition of human rights organisations has dismissed allegations linking suspended Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, to security threats and militant activities in the state, calling the claims politically motivated attempts to undermine his administration.
In a report released on Wednesday during a press briefing in Abuja, the Coalition of Human Rights Monitoring Group debunked suggestions that Fubara had connections to militant groups engaged in pipeline vandalism and security disruptions in Rivers State. The findings described these accusations as “politically motivated fabrications” aimed at destabilising the state’s leadership.
The coalition’s investigation found no evidence of financial transactions or operational ties between the Rivers State government and known militant factions. The report further linked the tensions in the state to broader political struggles rather than any criminal activity on the part of the governor.
Additionally, the report pointed to ongoing political hostilities as a major driver of the crisis, accusing Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, of aggravating tensions in Rivers. It called for an immediate de-escalation of political conflicts, the withdrawal of security forces from the state, and an independent inquiry into the allegations of militancy.
Local communities, the report noted, have also rejected claims of security threats in their areas, affirming that oil and gas infrastructure remains secure and fully operational.
The coalition strongly condemned efforts to link Fubara to militant activities, stating:
“It is abundantly clear to us, and to the world, that Governor Siminalayi Fubara has no verifiable links to militant groups operating within Rivers State, or the Niger Delta at large.
We are convinced that the allegations against him appear to be politically motivated, fuelled by power struggles and deep-seated rivalries rather than grounded in any factual basis.”
The report warned that using baseless allegations as a political weapon threatens Nigeria’s democratic values.
“The real instigators of instability in Rivers State are those who prioritise personal vendettas over public welfare. It is, therefore, imperative for all stakeholders within Nigeria and in the international community to recognise the dangerous implications of weaponizing baseless accusations for political expediency.
The attempt to malign Governor Fubara’s character through such claims is not only an attack on his personal integrity but also an affront to the democratic values that Nigeria professes to uphold.”
It further stressed that the people of Rivers State deserve stability, development, and peace rather than political crises orchestrated for selfish interests.
“Governor Fubara must not be sacrificed on the altar of political expediency. His exoneration from these baseless allegations and false narratives is not just a defense of his personality but a defense of democracy itself.”
The report praised Fubara’s efforts in governance and security, highlighting his commitment to protecting vital oil installations and promoting transparent leadership. It argued that the security challenges in Rivers State are deeply rooted in historical struggles for equity in the Niger Delta, rather than being the fault of the current administration.
The coalition called on the international community, civil society, and democratic institutions to remain vigilant in preventing political instability in Rivers State. It urged all stakeholders to support truth and justice while rejecting attempts to manipulate security concerns for political advantage.