By: Chioma Madonna Ndukwu
Siminalayi Fubara, the suspended governor of Rivers State, Nigeria, has raised concerns over the spread of fake videos alleging pipeline explosions in the region.
In a statement released by his Chief Press Secretary, Nelson Chukwudi, Fubara strongly condemned the videos as “fake and malicious” and urged law enforcement to investigate those responsible for spreading such false information.
He warned that these videos were intended to “incite chaos” and disrupt the state’s peace.
Fubara reaffirmed his commitment to maintaining order, emphasizing that he has “no link to any militant group” and does not support any actions that could harm the safety of the state or its oil and gas infrastructure. He further clarified:
“Governor Siminalayi Fubara has no reason to encourage any criminal group or elements” and urged against attempts to use his name to justify violence.
The statement also noted that the communities where these alleged explosions were said to have occurred had rejected the claims.
“Virtually all the fake videos have been linked to alleged militant groups in the state, with the creators of such content trying very hard to connect them to supporters of Governor Siminalayi Fubara,” it read.
These communities reassured the public that “all critical government assets within their areas are safe, secure and efficiently functioning.”
Fubara urged bloggers and social media influencers to cease spreading these false narratives, stating, “their campaign to create an atmosphere of tension, chaos, and anarchy” was harmful to the state.
He called on security agencies to take immediate action against those behind the misleading content. He also added:
“Security agencies should take note of these fake videos… and take every necessary step to contain them, and bring those behind them to book.”
The sociopolitical group Simplicity Movement also expressed concern over the alleged explosions, particularly at the Trans Niger Pipeline in Bodo.
Their leader, Sobomabo Jackrich, pointed out that while the pipeline operators denied any explosions, the incidents still posed a risk to “lives, the environment, and the economic stability of our state.”
The group urged a full investigation and called for those responsible for any sabotage to be brought to justice.
In light of the political unrest in the state, Fubara cautioned against further violence, urging all stakeholders to “de-escalate tensions” and work toward restoring democracy in Rivers State.
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