The Rivers State Government has categorically refuted claims circulating on social media platforms regarding an alleged summons issued to the suspended Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, and his Deputy, Prof. Ngozi Odu, by the state’s Sole Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd.). The government, through a statement issued by Dede Friday, Permanent Secretary of the Special Services Bureau, Office of the Secretary to the State Government, denounced the reports as fabricated, malicious, and a calculated attempt to misinform the public and incite unrest. The statement unequivocally asserted that no such summons originated from any official government channel, urging the public to dismiss the circulating information as the work of mischievous elements seeking to disrupt the state’s tranquility.
The controversy stems from a fraudulent social media announcement falsely attributed to the Office of the Secretary to the State Government. This fabricated announcement claimed that the suspended Governor Fubara and Deputy Governor Odu were summoned to a meeting at the Government House on Friday, April 18, 2025. The Rivers State Government acted swiftly to debunk this misinformation, emphasizing the importance of relying on verified information sources. The government’s proactive response underscores its commitment to transparency and its determination to counter the spread of false narratives that could potentially destabilize the state.
The government’s statement highlighted the dangers of disseminating unverified information, particularly in the context of a politically sensitive situation like the suspension of the governor and his deputy. By labeling the circulating reports as “fake news,” the government sought to discredit the information and prevent it from gaining further traction. This decisive action reflects the government’s recognition of the potential for misinformation to escalate tensions and create unnecessary anxiety within the public. Furthermore, it serves as a warning to those involved in spreading such falsehoods.
To ensure the dissemination of accurate information, the Rivers State Government advised residents and media organizations to rely solely on official communication channels. These channels include the official Rivers State Government website (www.riversstate.gov.ng), verified social media platforms such as the official Rivers State Government Facebook page, official press releases from the Governor’s Office and the SSG, and approved traditional media outlets. This directive underscores the government’s commitment to transparency and its efforts to provide the public with reliable and credible information directly from the source.
The government’s insistence on utilizing official channels aims to mitigate the spread of misinformation and maintain public trust. By clearly defining the legitimate avenues for obtaining information, the government empowers citizens to discern between credible news and potentially harmful propaganda. This proactive approach to information dissemination is crucial in maintaining stability and preventing unnecessary panic or confusion among the public.
In conclusion, the Rivers State Government’s swift and decisive response to the false reports demonstrates its commitment to maintaining order and ensuring the dissemination of accurate information. By denouncing the reports as fake and malicious, the government aims to counter the spread of misinformation and prevent any potential unrest. The emphasis on utilizing official communication channels further solidifies the government’s dedication to transparency and its resolve to keep the public informed through credible sources. This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of verifying information before sharing it, especially in the digital age where misinformation can spread rapidly and have significant consequences.
