Bukola Afeni
Amidst ongoing impeachment proceedings against him and his deputy, Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has affirmed that he remains the duly elected governor of the state.
Speaking on Saturday night at the grand finale of the week-long 2026 NPA Port Harcourt International Polo Tournament in the state capital.
Fubara said “I am here. I am still the Governor of Rivers State, and we will continue to do what we promised the Rivers people that we would do.”
The Governor praised the smooth conduct of the week-long tournament, noting that it demonstrates the safety and stability of Rivers State.
“I am really happy that you had your tournament for one week, and the president boldly telling the world that there was no incident shows that we are working and Rivers State is safe. That is the most important thing, and that is the basic responsibility of government,” he said.
Fubara explained that his attendance at the event was also a personal commitment to honour the memory of his late brother, Engineer Role, Architect Roland Cookey-Gam.
“Fortunately, his wife and son are here. I did promise I would come here to honour the memory of my late brother,” he said.
He added that political pressures were also involved, saying he had been “ambushed” by the president and others, who threatened to withhold certain promises to the state if he did not attend the event.
Reflecting on previous editions of the tournament, Fubara recalled challenges faced in prior years, noting that despite obstacles, the government remains committed to its responsibilities.
“But that notwithstanding, we must move on. We must carry out our responsibility as government, and we must continue to support everyone who means well for Rivers State,” he said.
The governor assured support for the improvement of the club hosting the tournament, clarifying the limits of that support
Fubara also reassured residents and visitors of their safety, urging the public not to be swayed by social media reports or sensational media stories.
“For all our guests, enjoy our state. Take home the story that it is not what you hear in social media or what they tell you in media. Rivers State is safe. The life and property of everybody living and doing business here is the most important thing to me. I will not, for any reason, support directly or indirectly any act that will endanger the life of anyone,” he said.
