Presidency clears air on Shettima’s comment, says it wasn’t about Fubara

The Presidency has refuted claims that Vice President Kashim Shettima took a jab at Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, during a recent public appearance in Abuja.

A statement issued on Friday by Stanley Nkwocha, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications (Office of the Vice President), said the Vice President’s remarks at the book launch of “OPL 245: The Inside Story of the $1.3 Billion Oil Block” were twisted by mischief-makers.

Shettima had referenced his experience during the Jonathan administration when he faced attempts to be removed as Governor of Borno State amid the Boko Haram crisis. His comments, according to Nkwocha, were simply to highlight former Attorney General Mohammed Bello Adoke’s role during that period.

“The remarks were historical references and had nothing to do with the current situation in Rivers State,” the Presidency said.

Some media reports had linked the Vice President’s speech to the recent suspension of Governor Fubara by President Bola Tinubu following the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State.

Nkwocha described the interpretation as “irresponsible and misleading,” stressing that Shettima’s speech focused on public accountability and constitutional development — not present-day political issues.

“For clarity, President Tinubu did not remove Governor Fubara from office. The action taken was a suspension, backed by constitutional provisions and approved by a bipartisan vote in the National Assembly,” the statement said.

It added that the state of emergency was declared due to escalating political violence, destruction of public institutions, and threats to peace and governance in Rivers State.

Quoting Section 305 of the Constitution, the Presidency said the measures were lawful and necessary to prevent a total breakdown of order in the state.

“Attempts to link Shettima’s reflections to current events are either deliberate mischief or ignorance,” Nkwocha added.

He said the administration remains united and focused on upholding the rule of law and national stability.

“Vice President Shettima stands firmly with President Tinubu. Media outlets and political actors should desist from creating division where none exists,” the statement concluded.