Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has denounced what he described as a coordinated campaign of misinformation aimed at portraying the state as unsafe, insisting that Rivers remains peaceful, secure, and fully open for business, tourism, and major events.
Speaking on Sunday night at the grand finale of the Python Golf Club’s 6th Edition Chief Ikenna Okafor 2025 Pro-Amateur Golf Championship in Port Harcourt, the Governor said the presence of visitors from across Africa was proof that the negative reports were politically driven and deliberately exaggerated.
Fubara said, “I can tell you the truth: more than half of the things you read in the media are not true. Worse things have happened in other states, but because they manage their media, people don’t read about them. But in our case, just to run us down and make us look like the devil with invisible horns, they say anything to portray us in a bad light.”
According to a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Nelson Chukwudi, the Governor accused political detractors of “weaponising” the state’s past challenges and manipulating public perception for personal advantage.
He acknowledged that Rivers experienced political tensions earlier in his administration, causing about six months of disruption, but stressed that peace has since returned and security agencies are now functioning optimally.
He praised joint security operations in the state, describing their performance as “wonderful” following the restoration of order.
Governor Fubara noted that the smooth, incident-free experience enjoyed by guests during the tournament disproved the narrative of insecurity.
“Your presence signifies only one thing: that Rivers State is safe, contrary to what we hear, what we read, and how our state is being presented in the media,” he told participants.
He thanked the golfers and their supporters, stating that their participation reaffirmed confidence in Rivers as a safe and hospitable destination.
The Governor announced renewed government backing for the Pro-Amateur tournament and pledged to revive the long-dormant Governor’s Cup. He also promised additional support to help upgrade the golf club’s facilities.
He urged golfers to share their positive experiences when they return home, stressing that Rivers State is actively reclaiming its public image.
“Our mission is simple: to change our story, protect our state, and remind everyone that Rivers State is ours and it is safe,” he said.
Army Confirms Peaceful Atmosphere
The General Officer Commanding 6 Division of the Nigerian Army, Major General Emmanuel Eric Emekah, said the prevailing peace in the state made it possible to hold the tournament in Port Harcourt.
He said the successful conclusion of the championship validated the decision and thanked the Governor for attending and providing encouraging support.
Earlier, the chief celebrant of the championship, Chief Ikenna Okafor, expressed delight at hosting a sitting Governor for the first time in 15 years.
He announced plans to revive the Governor’s Cup and to organise more tournaments to attract tourists and golf enthusiasts to Rivers.
He revealed that this year’s event attracted participants from eight African countries and golfers from 36 clubs across Nigeria, underscoring confidence in the state’s safety and hospitality.
The event featured prize presentations, the cutting of Chief Okafor’s birthday cake, and a toast to future tournaments.
