The Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral Ibok-Etteh Ibas (Rtd.), has debunked viral social media reports claiming he summoned suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara and Deputy Governor Ngozi Odu for questioning this Friday.
In an official statement signed by Permanent Secretary Sir Dede Sampson Friday, the Rivers State Government described the circulating notices as “malicious fabrications” designed to create panic.
“The public is urged to disregard these fake announcements which never originated from any official source,” the statement read. “These are clearly the handiwork of troublemakers seeking to destabilize our state.”
The rebuttal comes amid heightened political tensions in Rivers State following the imposition of emergency rule. One widely shared fake notice had alleged the suspended governor would be probed over recent appointments at a April 18 meeting at Government House.
Authorities have warned citizens to rely only on verified communication channels including:
- The official state website (www.riversstate.gov.ng)
- Authentic social media handles (@RiversStateGov on Facebook)
- Press releases from the Governor’s Office and SSG
- Accredited traditional media outlets
The government has established a dedicated contact line (+234 913 574 8442) for public inquiries, urging residents to verify information before sharing.
This development occurs as the House of Representatives prepares to question the Sole Administrator tomorrow regarding the state’s emergency administration. Security analysts warn that misinformation campaigns could escalate tensions in the oil-rich state.
“We must remain united and calm during this critical period,” the statement concluded, emphasizing the administration’s commitment to transparency while maintaining law and order.
