I’m Still Governor of Rivers — Fubara Declares

Governor of Rivers State, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, on Saturday publicly reaffirmed his authority as the state’s chief executive amid ongoing political tension, declaring unequivocally that he remains the duly elected governor of Rivers State.

Fubara made the statement while attending the grand finale of the week-long 2026 NPA Port Harcourt International Polo Tournament, held in Port Harcourt, an appearance that drew attention given the prevailing political developments in the state.

Addressing players, organisers, and guests at the event, the governor stated bluntly:
“I’m here. I’m still the Governor of Rivers State, and we will continue to do what we promised the Rivers people that we would do.”

He used the occasion to project an image of stability and safety in Rivers State, stressing that the peaceful conduct of the international tournament was evidence that government was functioning effectively despite the political turbulence.

“I’m really happy that you had your tournament for one week, and the president boldly telling the world that there was no incident; it 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.

In unusually candid remarks, Governor Fubara explained the circumstances surrounding his presence at the event, insisting that his attendance was not forced, while acknowledging that he had faced pressure.

According to him, his primary reason for attending was to honour the memory of his late friend and associate, Engineer Role, Architect Roland Cookey-Gam.

“I’m here for two reasons. The first, I want the president to understand that he’s not the one that made me to attend this event. I’m here because of my late brother, Engineer Role, Architect Roland Cookey-Gam. I did promise I would come here to honor the memory of my late brother,” he said, while recognising members of the deceased’s family present at the venue.

He further disclosed that he had recently been placed under pressure by influential figures who warned that certain commitments to Rivers State could be withdrawn if he failed to attend the polo tournament.

“The president and maybe very few people that are very close to me ambushed me some days ago. And he said if I don’t attend this event, that he was going to stop some things he promised he was going to do for us in Rivers State. And I was in-between the devil and the deep blue sea,” Fubara revealed.

He said he eventually decided to attend, combining his personal commitment with what he described as a pragmatic political decision.

“While I originally had a mind to come here for my brother, I said okay, let me use one stone and kill two birds,” he added.

Reflecting on past editions of the tournament, Governor Fubara suggested that the event had often coincided with periods of political difficulty for him.

He recalled the 2024 edition, describing January of that year as “hell,” and alluded to the deepening political crisis that followed in 2025.

“In the year 2024, you were having the tournament… Almighty God, that January was hell. 2025, in fact, you already know the drama we’re facing. You didn’t even bother to come near me, so I understand,” he said.

On the 2026 edition, the governor hinted at fresh challenges, referring cryptically to receiving what he described as a “love letter,” a phrase widely interpreted as a reference to recent political or legal actions confronting his administration.

“This 2026, I thought it would have been the finest. They just landed me a love letter. So you understand,” he remarked.

Despite the political headwinds, Fubara assured Rivers people that his administration would continue to function and uphold 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.

Addressing concerns raised by the polo club, the governor pledged government support to improve the status of the club, though he ruled out direct financial assistance for certain requests.

“I’m not going to support you to buy a trailer, but I will help in improving the status and place of this club. That is my promise to you this night,” he stated.

He also used the platform to counter negative narratives about security in the state, particularly those circulating on social media.

“Take home the story that it is not what you hear in social media or what they tell you in media media. Rivers State is safe,” Fubara said.

Reaffirming his commitment to peace and security, the governor declared that the protection of lives and property remained his highest priority.

“For me, 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 stressed.

Governor Fubara concluded his remarks by thanking guests and participants, expressing optimism that future editions of the tournament would hold under calmer circumstances.

“I believe next year, I will be in a more better form to be with you from the beginning to the end of the event,” he said, before wishing attendees safe journeys and continued enjoyment of the event.

His appearance and forceful declaration come at a time of heightened political uncertainty in Rivers State, with developments around governance and power struggles continuing to dominate public discourse.