Fubara refutes claims of excluding Rivers political stakeholders
Fubara dismisses allegations of marginalising Rivers politicians
Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has rejected accusations that he has excluded major political stakeholders in the state.
He issued the denial in Ahoada West Local Government Area while inaugurating the Ahoda–Omoku Road extension.
The ceremony, held on [insert current verifiable date], was attended by traditional rulers, community heads, contractors, and senior government officials.
Fubara stated that reports claiming he shut out certain politicians from his administration were untrue and intended to mislead Rivers residents.
Governor addresses rift rumours at Ahoda–Omoku Road extension launch
The governor used the road inauguration as a platform to respond to increasing media stories about divisions within the Rivers State political establishment.
He stressed that his administration remained accessible to all political stakeholders willing to pursue peace and development.
According to him, no group or political leader had been formally prevented from interacting with his government.
He emphasised that his main priority remains delivering infrastructure and social services to everyday citizens.
Background: escalating political tension in Rivers State
Rivers State has experienced heightened political tension since late 2023, following an open fallout between Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike.
Information from several national reports indicates that the crisis sparked protests, legal battles, and attempts to impeach the governor.
Experts have cautioned that a prolonged standoff in Port Harcourt, a key oil-producing centre, could hamper governance and investor confidence.
For many residents, the struggle among political elites has fuelled concerns about job losses, abandoned projects, and growing insecurity.
Consequences for ordinary Rivers residents
The debate over political exclusion has immediate implications for people living in Rivers communities.
When political stakeholders are at loggerheads, government decision-making slows and contractors halt work on critical projects.
Residents in Ahoada West and surrounding communities have long called for better roads, drainage systems, health facilities, and schools.
Any impression of a fractured government could delay these essential services and deepen poverty.
Ahoda–Omoku Road extension and wider infrastructure drive
The Ahoda–Omoku Road extension is part of a larger infrastructure expansion programme in Rivers State.
Figures from the National Bureau of Statistics indicate that Rivers remains one of Nigeria’s leading contributors to oil revenues.
Yet many areas still depend on dilapidated rural roads that push up transport costs and restrict access to markets and health facilities.
Fubara said his government would continue to prioritise road projects that link farming communities to urban centres.
Key figures and main points
• National Bureau of Statistics data shows Rivers State ranked among Nigeria’s top three oil-producing states in 2023.
• Nonetheless, Nigeria’s multidimensional poverty report reveals that millions of people in the South-South still lack adequate access to basic services.
• Independent security monitoring organisations report that road insecurity and poor road conditions remain major threats for travellers across the Niger Delta.
• Policy experts warn that sustained political instability in a major oil-producing state could erode federal revenue and worsen unemployment.
Political stakeholders and governance dynamics in Rivers State
The governor’s denial of exclusion comes as political players in Rivers continue to reposition themselves ahead of upcoming elections.
Party chieftains, ex-lawmakers, local government chairmen, and youth organisations have all asked for more clearly defined roles in the state’s power structure.
Commentators argue that transparent engagement with these groups is vital for maintaining peace and stable governance.
Fubara reiterated that he remains open to any stakeholder willing to obey the law and support development.
Wider Nigerian governance challenges
The Rivers scenario reflects broader governance issues across Nigeria.
In several states, political power struggles have slowed budget execution, delayed salary payments, and disrupted local government operations.
Civil society organisations have persistently demanded stronger internal democracy within parties and clearer, enforceable rules for power-sharing.
Analysts point out that when political actors feel sidelined, they often turn to litigations, protests, or setting up parallel structures.
Economic and security stakes for Rivers State
Rivers State is home to major oil and gas installations, export terminals, and industrial infrastructure.
Any serious breakdown in political stability could interrupt operations, endanger jobs, and cut state revenues.
Security officials have also warned that unresolved local grievances can escalate youth restiveness and criminality.
Residents in Ahoada and Omoku environs have already voiced worries about kidnappings, cult-related violence, and vandalism along strategic roads.
Why inclusive governance is critical now
Nigeria is grappling with high inflation, surging food prices, and a deepening cost-of-living crisis.
Under these conditions, inclusive governance in a strategic state like Rivers becomes even more vital.
National Bureau of Statistics data shows that food inflation and transportation expenses remain key drivers of household suffering.
Prudent use of state resources, backed by broad-based stakeholder cooperation, can help shield residents from these economic shocks.
Media narratives and public opinion
The allegation that the governor has sidelined political stakeholders has gained wide traction across mainstream and social media.
Public perception now significantly shapes political legitimacy in Nigeria.
Analysts caution that any storyline of exclusion, if not promptly addressed, can erode a governor’s political base.
Fubara’s public denial in Ahoada West seems designed to challenge that narrative and reassure the populace.
Demands for openness and sustained dialogue
Several civic organisations have urged the Rivers State government to go beyond simple denials and set out clear frameworks for stakeholder engagement.
They have called for frequent town hall meetings, structured consultations, and publicly available records of key government decisions.
Such measures, they contend, would prove that no political stakeholder is formally shut out and that policy decisions follow due process.
They further insist that transparent dialogue can curb misinformation and lower the likelihood of violent crises.
Next steps: the road ahead for Rivers political stakeholders
The present dispute over inclusion adds to a long record of political friction in Rivers State.
Past administrations also grappled with clashes over succession, resource allocation, and influence within the ruling party.
What makes the current phase distinct is the intense economic strain on citizens and nationwide attention on stability in oil-producing regions.
For most residents, the central concern is not who prevails in a political contest but whether the government delivers roads, employment, and security.
Looking ahead, governance specialists say leaders in Rivers must emphasise structured, continuous dialogue among all political stakeholders.
They advise establishing clear channels of communication, publishing development blueprints, and issuing regular performance updates to the public.
If the government backs its denial of exclusion with demonstrable inclusion in appointments, contract awards, and consultations, public trust could recover.
The peace of Rivers State, and the wellbeing of its people, will hinge on whether political actors embrace cooperation rather than confrontation in the coming months.
