Fubara Debunks Insecurity Claims, Says Rivers State Safe and Open for Business

Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has denounced what he called a deliberate campaign of misinformation designed to portray the state as unsafe.

Speaking on Sunday night at the grand finale of the Python Golf Club’s 6th Edition Chief Ikenna Okafor 2025 Pro-Amateur Golf Championship in Port Harcourt, the governor insisted that Rivers remains peaceful and fully open for business, tourism, and major events.

A statement issued on Monday by his Chief Press Secretary, Nelson Chukwudi, noted that Fubara’s remarks followed recent media reports highlighting cult-related killings and insecurity in the state.

Last week, the State Police Command had announced the arrest of ten members of a notorious cult group terrorising the Doubu axis of Port Harcourt and neighbouring areas.

Fubara argued that the impressive turnout of guests from various African countries at the tournament clearly contradicted the negative portrayals circulating in the media, which he described as exaggerated and politically driven.

He said many of the alarming reports about Rivers State were untrue, adding that other states also face security issues but manage their public image differently. According to him, detractors have “weaponised” the state’s challenges to distort public perception.

The governor acknowledged that earlier political tensions caused disruptions for about six months but emphasised that peace has since been restored, enabling security agencies to perform optimally. He commended the joint security team for their effective coordination since normalcy returned.

Fubara noted that visitors at the tournament moved around freely, socialised, and enjoyed the city without any incident—an indication, he said, that Rivers State is safe.

He thanked participants for their presence and pledged continued government support for the championship, including the revival of the Governor’s Cup and improvements to the club’s facilities.

The governor urged players and guests to share their positive experiences when they return home, stressing that the state is committed to rebuilding its public image.

In his remarks, Major General Emmanuel Emekah, General Officer Commanding the 6 Division of the Nigerian Army, said the peaceful environment in Rivers State influenced their decision to host the tournament there, adding that its success validated their confidence.

Chief Ikenna Okafor, celebrant of the 6th Edition CIO Pro-Amateur Championship, expressed joy at having a sitting governor visit the club—an occurrence he said had not happened in 15 years. He promised to revive the Governor’s Cup and attract more tournaments to boost tourism in the state.

The competition drew participants from eight African countries and golfers from 36 clubs across Nigeria. Highlights included prize presentations, Chief Okafor’s birthday celebration, and a toast to more successful tournaments in the future.