Siminalayi Fubara, the governor of Rivers State, has condemned what he called a planned campaign of false information intended to depict the state as dangerous, maintaining that Rivers is still safe, tranquil, and available for large events, business, and tourism.
Speaking at the grand finale of the Python Golf Club’s 6th Edition Chief Ikenna Okafor 2025 Pro-Amateur Golf Championship in Port Harcourt on Sunday night, the Governor claimed that the presence of guests from all over Africa was evidence that the unfavorable reports were purposefully inflated and motivated by politics.
“I can tell you the truth: more than half of the things you read in the media are not true,” Fubara stated. There have been worse incidents in other states, but because they control their media, people don’t learn about them. However, in our situation, they say anything to paint us in a negative light in order to denigrate us and make us appear like the devil with phantom horns.
Nelson Chukwudi, the governor’s chief press secretary, released a statement accusing political critics of “weaponizing” the state’s past difficulties and swaying public opinion for their own gain.
Although he recognized that political tensions in Rivers had caused disruptions for around six months during his administration, he emphasized that calm has since returned and security services are now operating at their best.
He commended the state’s joint security efforts, calling their performance “wonderful” once law and order was restored.
Governor Fubara pointed out that the notion of insecurity was refuted by the guests’ seamless, incident-free experience during the tournament.
“In contrast to what we hear, read, and how our state is portrayed in the media, your presence signifies only one thing: that Rivers State is safe,” he told the attendees.
He expressed gratitude to the golfers and their supporters, saying that their involvement confirmed Rivers’ reputation as a welcoming and secure travel destination.
The Governor promised to bring the long-dormant Governor’s Cup back to life and said that the government will once again support the Pro-Amateur competition. In order to improve the golf club’s facilities, he also pledged to provide more assistance.
He emphasized that Rivers State is actively rebuilding its reputation and encouraged golfers to share their good experiences when they get back home.
He stated, “Our mission is simple: to change our story, protect our state, and remind everyone that Rivers State is ours and it is safe.”
The army affirms the calm environment
Major General Emmanuel Eric Emekah, General Officer Commanding 6 Division of the Nigerian Army, stated that the tournament could be held in Port Harcourt due to the state’s current condition of peace.
He praised the Governor for visiting and offering encouraging support, saying that the championship’s good outcome supported the decision.
Chief Ikenna Okafor, the championship’s chief celebrant, had earlier expressed happiness at having a sitting governor in attendance for the first time in fifteen years.
In an effort to draw tourists and golf fans to Rivers, he announced plans to bring back the Governor’s Cup and host other competitions.
He disclosed that golfers from 36 clubs throughout Nigeria and participants from eight African nations attended this year’s event, demonstrating faith in the security and friendliness of the state.
Prize presentations, the cutting of Chief Okafor’s birthday cake, and a toast to upcoming competitions were all part of the celebration.
