The Rivers State Police Command has firmly denied reports alleging a violent altercation at the Government House in Port Harcourt, purportedly involving a clash between military personnel associated with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, and Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
Commissioner of Police Mustapha Mohammed, addressing the matter, dismissed the circulating reports as “false and baseless,” cautioning against the spread of misinformation that could incite unnecessary panic among residents.
In a statement released on Sunday by the Command’s spokesperson, Grace Iringe-Koko, the police clarified their stance, “The Rivers State Police Command unequivocally refutes the unsubstantiated report currently circulating, alleging a violent altercation at the Rivers State Government House involving supposed military forces allegedly loyal to former Governor Nyesom Wike and current Governor Sim Fubara.”
Commissioner Mohammed underscored that the allegations of any confrontation or casualties involving military personnel in Rivers State were “a deliberate fabrication aimed at inciting fear, confusion, and unrest within Rivers State.”
The statement further clarified rumors about Governor Fubara supposedly imposing a curfew or seeking security assistance from militant groups as unfounded.
“Governor Fubara has neither ordered a curfew nor called for any form of take-over of security operations within the state by militant groups,” the statement emphasized.
Reassuring the public, the Commissioner of Police stated, “The Nigeria Police Force and other security and law enforcement agencies remain in full control, actively maintaining peace and security in Rivers State and across the state.”
The Command urged residents to stay calm and refrain from disseminating unverified information. “This false narrative serves no purpose other than to disturb the peace and tranquillity in the state,” Iringe-Koko said, adding that the public should “disregard these false rumours and refrain from spreading unfounded and destructive reports. We call on everyone to verify information from credible sources and avoid sharing sensational and baseless claims intended to create discord.”
Additionally, the Command assured residents that security forces are on high alert and fully committed to maintaining public safety.
“The Commissioner of Police in charge of Rivers State hereby reiterates that the Command remains committed to ensuring the safety and security of all residents of the state,” the statement concluded.
The Rivers State Police Command’s response is intended to dispel fears and reinforce confidence in the state’s security apparatus, urging the public to support efforts to keep Rivers State safe and peaceful.
