The President specifically alleged that the governor permitted militants to destroy oil facilities in the state and failed to prevent the vandalism of the Rivers State House of Assembly complex.
President Bola Tinubu has sharply criticised Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara amid the ongoing political crisis involving the governor and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, now serving as the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
In a nationwide address on Tuesday evening, Tinubu accused Governor Fubara of unconstitutional actions and a failure to uphold the rule of law.
The President specifically alleged that the governor permitted militants to destroy oil facilities in the state and failed to prevent the vandalism of the Rivers State House of Assembly complex.
The President also alleged that Governor Fubara turned a blind eye to militant activities, accusing them of threatening perceived political opponents and carrying out acts of sabotage.
“Some militants had threatened fire and brimstone against their perceived enemy of the governor who has up till now not disowned them,” Tinubu stated.
He further stated, “Apart from that, both the House and the governor have not been able to work together. Both of them do not realize that they are in office to work together for the peace and good governance of the state.
“On February 28, 2025, the Supreme Court, in a judgment in respect of about eight consolidated appeals concerning the political crisis in Rivers State, based on several grave unconstitutional acts and disregard of rule of law that have been committed by the Governor of Rivers State.”
According to the President, the Supreme Court’s ruling followed a series of judicial findings highlighting constitutional breaches committed by Governor Fubara.
Tinubu noted that despite the court's directive to restore constitutional order, the governor had failed to facilitate the passage of an Appropriation Bill by the Rivers State House of Assembly, a crucial step in governance.
“The Supreme Court then made some orders to restore the state to immediate constitutional democracy,” Tinubu said.
“These orders include the immediate passing of an Appropriation Bill by the Rivers State House of Assembly which up till now has not been facilitated.”
Tinubu cited intelligence reports indicating fresh incidents of pipeline vandalism in Rivers State.
The political turmoil in Rivers State has intensified since Governor Fubara took office, with tensions escalating between his administration and his predecessor, Wike.
The crisis has led to factional divisions within the state’s government, raising concerns about governance stability and security in one of Nigeria’s key oil-producing regions.