A report by the Coalition of Human Rights Monitoring Group has stated that Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State was erroneously implicated in security issues that led to the declaration of a state of emergency in the state.
Tinubu, in a nationwide broadcast on Tuesday night last week, declared a state of emergency in Rivers State saying he was “greatly disturbed about the political crisis” in the state and accused Governor Sim Fubara of demolishing the State House of Assembly building.
Fubara and his deputy, Ngozi Odu, and all elected members of the Rivers State House of Assembly, were suspended for an initial period of six months. A retired Vice Admiral, Ibokette Ibas, was appointed as Administrator to take charge of the affairs of the state during the emergency period.
Tinubu has come under fire from several quarters, with many Nigerians questioning the legality of the decision.
The Coalition of Human Rights Monitoring Group, in a report on the crisis in Rivers State, said Fubara has no links to the militant groups responsible for pipeline vandalism and security breaches in the state, as was alleged.
The report unveiled at a press conference in Abuja on Wednesday, March 26, described claims that Fubara has ties to militant groups as “politically motivated fabrications” designed to destabilise his administration.
The Coalition of Human Rights Monitoring Groups said its investigations showed no evidence of financial transactions or operational links between the state government and known militant factions.
The report highlighted the role of Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, in fueling tensions in Rivers State through his inflammatory remarks.
The Coalition, in the report, recommends the immediate cessation of political hostilities, the withdrawal of security forces unlawfully deployed in Rivers State, and the initiation of independent investigations into allegations of militancy.
“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, fueled by power struggles and deep-seated rivalries rather than grounded in any factual basis. This report has methodically dismantled the unfounded allegations against Governor Siminalayi Fubara, exposing them as politically motivated fabrications.
“The real instigators of instability in Rivers State are those who prioritize personal vendettas over public welfare. It is, therefore, imperative for all stakeholders, both within Nigeria and in the international community, to recognize 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.
“Moreover, the reckless statements made by Minister Nyesom Wike, which have exacerbated tensions in the region, must be condemned unequivocally. Public office holders bear an ethical and constitutional responsibility to foster national unity rather than stoke the flames of discord.
“The people of Rivers State deserve peace, stability, and development — not a manufactured crisis driven by political greed and ambition. As concerned citizens and defenders of democracy, we stand resolute in our support for truth and justice.
“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.
“Governor Fubara has consistently demonstrated his commitment to peace, security, and good governance. His call for the protection of vital oil installations and his transparent governance style stand in stark contrast to the baseless allegations that seek to tarnish his reputation.
“The security challenges in Rivers State are not of his making; rather, they are symptomatic of a broader historical struggle for equity and justice in the Niger Delta. The international community, civil society, and all lovers of democracy must stand strong behind Rivers State to save it from anarchy,” the Coalition said.
