Siminalayi Fubara, the suspended governor of Rivers State, has dismissed allegations made against him by George Nwaeke, the former Head of Service (HoS) in the state, describing them as baseless and politically motivated.
Nwaeke, who resigned on Tuesday, had accused Fubara of spearheading the political crisis in Rivers State, claiming the governor held secret meetings with militants and encouraged attacks on oil pipelines.
In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter) early Saturday, Fubara denied the allegations, stating that Nwaeke’s claims were “laughable” and a deliberate attempt to tarnish his reputation.
“Compromised and Coerced to Lie”
Fubara asserted that Nwaeke had been “compromised” and was being “coerced” to fabricate stories against him.
“Ordinarily, I would not have responded to his claims, but to correct the erroneous impression such allegations may create in the minds of the people, and the disaffection it is bound to cause in the state and the country,” Fubara said.
He specifically refuted Nwaeke’s claim of being privy to discussions about supporting Bauchi Governor Bala Mohammed’s alleged 2027 presidential bid, calling it absurd for a Head of Service to attend such meetings.
“Howbeit, none of such meetings ever held,” Fubara stated.
Denies Links to Militants, Pipeline Destruction
The suspended governor also denied allegations of involvement in pipeline vandalism, insisting he had never met with militants or criminal elements.
“It is ludicrous for Dr. Nwaeke to claim that he was aware of my meetings to encourage attacks on oil pipelines. There was no time I held any meeting with militants or any criminal group to destabilise the State,” he said.
Fubara maintained that he had consistently advocated for peace in Rivers State despite provocations.
Calls for Public Disregard
Urging Rivers residents and Nigerians to disregard Nwaeke’s statements, Fubara described the accusations as “desperate attempts to discredit me and my administration, and undermine the peace process by Mr. President.”
The political rift in Rivers State continues to escalate as Fubara and his allies face mounting opposition from former associates and state officials.