The Rivers State Government has said that Governor Siminalayi Fubara will Continue to show respect and gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and nit disrespect as being alleged in some quarters.
The state government in a statement, issued by Dr. Honour Kuru Sirawoo, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Information and Communications, was in response to a claim credited to Bestman Innocent Amadi of the Rivers State Chapter of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) that the governor removed the official portrait of Tinubu from Government House.
Sirawoo described the allegation as “misleading, irresponsible, and inflammatory,” noting that
the allegation suggested that the Governor acted out of “ingratitude” toward the President, cautioning against giving credibility to “fifth columnists” whose agenda is to sow discord within the state.
Sirawoo clarified that the state government has no policy, directive, or intention to disrespect the President or the Federal Government, stressing that Fubara currently maintains a “robust and collaborative relationship” with President Tinubu and the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which is delivering tangible benefits to the state.
“The insinuation that the Governor acted out of disrespect is unsupported by verifiable facts and should be discountenanced,” the statement read, describing the claims as capable of creating unnecessary tension in the state.
He also expressed disappointment that a supposed youth organization, expected to promote unity and peace, would resort to “incendiary language, personal attacks, and unsubstantiated claims.” He warned that such rhetoric could undermine stability at a time when Rivers State needs calm, dialogue, and responsible leadership.
Sirawoo urged members of the public, particularly youths, to dissociate themselves from elements promoting divisive narratives and falsehoods in the political sphere.
He emphasized that Rivers belongs to all citizens and called on political actors and the public alike to prioritize truth, civility, and the collective desire for peace and progress over partisan disagreements.
“The administration remains committed to constructive engagement with all stakeholders and to fostering an environment where political differences do not compromise social cohesion,” the statement added.
“Governor Fubara’s administration continues to advocate collaboration with the Federal Government, highlighting projects and policies under the Renewed Hope Agenda that are positively impacting communities across Rivers State,” he said.
