Rivers State Government has strongly dismissed as baseless and mischievous an allegation that Governor Sir Siminalayi Fubara removed the official portrait of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu from Government House, describing the claim as a deliberate attempt to stir division and heat up the polity.
In a statement issued on January 27, 2026, and signed by Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Information and Communications, Dr. Honour Sirawoo, the government categorically denied any policy, directive, or intention to disrespect President Tinubu or the Federal Government.
The allegation surfaced from a purported statement by Bestman Innocent Amadi, claiming to speak for the Rivers State Chapter of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN).
Amadi reportedly accused the governor of acting out of “ingratitude” by removing the president’s portrait.
“For the avoidance of doubt, the Rivers State Government has no policy, directive, or intention that disrespects the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria or the authority of the Federal Government,” the statement read.
It highlighted that Governor Fubara currently enjoys a “robust and collaborative relationship” with President Tinubu and the Renewed Hope Agenda, which continues to deliver positive impacts on Rivers citizens through federal initiatives and partnerships.
The statement described the insinuation of disrespect or ingratitude as “misleading, irresponsible, inflammatory, and unsupported by verifiable facts,” urging the public to disregard it entirely.
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Expressing regret, the statement criticised the youth body for resorting to “incendiary language, personal attacks, and unsubstantiated claims” — conduct unbecoming of an organisation expected to foster youth unity and peace.
“At a time when Rivers State requires calm, dialogue, and responsible leadership, such rhetoric is capable of heating up the polity,” it noted.
The statement called on well-meaning citizens, especially the state’s hardworking youths, to dissociate themselves from elements peddling divisive rhetoric and falsehoods for political gain.
“Rivers State belongs to all of us. Political differences must never be allowed to override truth, civility, and the collective desire for peace and progress,” the statement emphasised.
It further warned against “fifth columnists” with dubious agendas to cause division, urging vigilance against inflammatory statements.
The Rivers State Government reaffirmed its dedication to fostering harmony, urging all stakeholders to prioritise verifiable facts over baseless provocations.
