Paragraph 1: Dismissal of False Reports and Emphasis on Government Transparency
The Rivers State Government has categorically refuted circulating social media reports alleging visits by former President Olusegun Obasanjo and a Pan Niger Delta Forum (PANDEF) delegation to Governor Siminalayi Fubara. These claims, branded as malicious attempts to incite chaos and lawlessness, were debunked in a statement issued by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Nelson Chukwudi. While acknowledging that such fabrications might typically be ignored, the government recognized the potential for these falsehoods to mislead the public and thus felt compelled to issue a clear and unequivocal denial. The statement underscored the government’s commitment to transparency and accurate information dissemination, emphasizing the need to counteract the spread of misinformation.
Paragraph 2: Clarification and Condemnation of Misinformation
The government’s statement explicitly clarified that neither former President Obasanjo nor any PANDEF delegation visited Governor Fubara at the Government House in Port Harcourt on the alleged date. The statement firmly labeled these narratives as "spurious claims" and "obvious fake news," highlighting the malicious intent behind their propagation. It condemned the actions of those spreading these falsehoods, characterizing them as "enemies of the state" seeking to undermine peace, good governance, and development. The government underscored its dedication to bequeathing a stable and prosperous future to current and future generations, a goal directly threatened by the dissemination of such misleading information.
Paragraph 3: Governor Fubara’s Commitment to Supreme Court Judgement Implementation
Beyond addressing the false visit narratives, the government’s statement also reiterated Governor Fubara’s unwavering commitment to fully implementing the Supreme Court’s judgment regarding the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State. The governor has initiated the necessary processes to ensure compliance with the court’s orders, demonstrating his respect for the rule of law and the judicial process. The statement highlighted the governor’s proactive approach to resolving the political impasse and restoring stability within the state’s governance structure. It emphasized the importance of adherence to legal processes and judicial pronouncements in resolving political disputes.
Paragraph 4: Obstacles to Implementation and Call for Cooperation
Despite Governor Fubara’s commitment to implementing the Supreme Court’s judgment, the statement revealed challenges posed by the Rivers State House of Assembly’s lack of cooperation. The Assembly’s refusal to collaborate with the governor in facilitating the resolution of the issues raised by the court has created an obstacle to the full implementation of the judgment. The statement implicitly called for the Assembly to cooperate with the governor’s efforts, emphasizing the importance of inter-branch collaboration in achieving a swift and effective resolution to the political crisis. This cooperation is crucial for restoring stability and ensuring the smooth functioning of the government.
Paragraph 5: Governor’s Readiness for Resolution and Appeal for Unity
The governor’s readiness to fulfill his obligations and ensure the resolution of the issues was emphatically reiterated in the statement. He expressed his willingness to take the necessary steps "any day, any time" to facilitate the smooth functioning of all branches of government in Rivers State. This declaration underscores the governor’s commitment to resolving the political impasse and fostering a collaborative environment within the state government. The statement implicitly appealed for unity and cooperation among all stakeholders to achieve a lasting resolution to the political crisis.
Paragraph 6: Conclusion: Emphasizing Stability, Development, and Good Governance
The statement concluded by emphasizing the Rivers State Government’s dedication to peace, good governance, and even development. It contrasted these goals with the disruptive intentions of those spreading false information and seeking to create chaos. By highlighting the stark difference between the government’s constructive efforts and the malicious actions of its detractors, the statement aimed to reassure the public of the government’s commitment to stability and progress. It implicitly urged citizens to disregard the false narratives and trust in the government’s efforts to navigate the political challenges and deliver on its promises of good governance and development. The government’s transparent communication and proactive approach to addressing the political crisis aim to foster public confidence and ensure stability within Rivers State.
