The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Rivers State Council, has commended Governor Siminalayi Fubara for his conciliatory approach in dousing political tension and fostering reconciliation in the state.
The union gave the commendation in a communiqué issued at the end of its monthly congress held on Friday, May 29, 2026, at the Ernest Ikoli Press Centre, Moscow Road, Port Harcourt.
The communiqué which was signed by the Rivers State NUJ Chairman, Comrade Paul Bazia-Nsaneh and Secretary, Dr. Ijeoma Tubosia, expressed satisfaction with the relative peace that has returned to Rivers State, attributing it to the interventions of various stakeholders, particularly the governor’s deliberate steps towards reducing tension and promoting unity.
While acknowledging Governor Fubara’s sacrifices, the NUJ called on political leaders, parties, and their supporters to reciprocate by embracing dialogue, tolerance, and statesmanship, stressing that the overall interest of the state must override personal and partisan ambitions.
The congress frowned at the growing use of inflammatory rhetoric and divisive utterances by some politicians, warning that such actions could undermine the prevailing peace.
“Rivers people expect their leaders to focus on governance, economic growth, infrastructure development, and the delivery of democratic dividends rather than getting entangled in prolonged political disagreements,” the communiqué stated.
The union applauded the Rivers State Government for ongoing infrastructural projects across the state, including road construction and rehabilitation, renovation of public schools, upgrading of public facilities, and the redevelopment of the State Secretariat Complex.
It, however, urged the government to sustain the tempo by ensuring transparency, quality execution, and equitable distribution of projects to all local government areas.
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The NUJ also expressed concern that the 2026 Rivers State Appropriation Bill is yet to be presented to the State House of Assembly, even as the year is almost at its midpoint. It therefore urged Governor Fubara to expedite action on the budget presentation to provide a clear legal framework for governance and development planning
On security, the journalists expressed worry over the proliferation of checkpoints on major roads, where commercial motorists and other road users are allegedly subjected to extortion.
They appealed to the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies to review their strategies to avoid undue hardship on law-abiding citizens.
The union equally condemned the rising cases of extortion, illegal revenue collection, and touting at motor parks, bus stops, and major roads, urging the Rivers State Ministry of Transport to intensify monitoring and enforcement.
The communiqué further lamented the increasing vandalism and looting of public assets, particularly manhole covers, monorail facilities, and other government infrastructure. It called on security agencies to strengthen surveillance and prosecute offenders.
The Rivers NUJ reaffirmed its commitment to ethical journalism and responsible media practice, while urging all residents of the state to remain peaceful, law-abiding, and united for sustainable progress.
