Rivers under attack by misinformation merchants – Fubara

Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has dismissed reports suggesting that the state is gripped by insecurity, describing the claims as a calculated attempt to tarnish the state’s reputation.

Speaking on Sunday evening at the closing ceremony of the Python Golf Club’s 6th Chief Ikenna Okafor Pro-Amateur Championship in Port Harcourt, the Governor insisted that Rivers remains calm, welcoming, and open for investment, events, and tourism.

His remarks were contained in a statement issued on Monday by his Chief Press Secretary, Nelson Chukwudi.

The Governor’s comments follow renewed media chatter over isolated security incidents, including cult-related violence. Only last week, the State Police Command announced the arrest of ten suspected cult members during an operation in the Doubu area of Port Harcourt.

Fubara, however, maintained that such reports have been deliberately exaggerated to serve political interests.

He argued that the large number of golfers and visitors from across Africa attending the tournament clearly contradicted the portrayal of Rivers as unsafe.

“More than half of what you read about Rivers State is manufactured,” he said. “Other states experience worse, but because their media machinery is stronger, you never hear of it. In our case, some people are determined to make us look terrible, even when it isn’t justified,” Fubara added.

The Governor accused unnamed detractors of exploiting the state’s past political crisis, which disrupted governance for about six months,  to distort public perception. He stressed that the situation has since stabilised, allowing security agencies to operate more effectively and restore calm.

Fubara commended the joint security team for what he described as their “excellent” performance in maintaining order since peace returned.

He added that participants at the golf championship had moved around the city freely, socialised, and enjoyed their stay without experiencing any threat.

“Your presence here says one thing: Rivers State is safe. Ignore the negative stories circulating about us,” the Governor told the guests.

Fubara also pledged continued government support for the tournament and announced plans to revive the long-dormant Governor’s Cup, alongside further improvements to the club’s facilities. He encouraged the visiting golfers to publicise their positive experiences when they return home.

“Our focus is simple: to reshape the narrative, safeguard our state, and reaffirm that Rivers belongs to all of us, and it is safe,” he said.