Protest: Fubara Sends Strict Warning to Thugs Plotting Anarchy

Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has revealed that there is credible intelligence about plans by external mercenaries and thugs to disrupt the state under the guise of protest, targeting valuable infrastructure.

Eko Hot Blog reports that despite the resolve of Rivers residents to abstain from the nationwide 10-day protest beginning August 1, Fubara warned that this plot remains a concern.

He disclosed these details during a meeting with representatives from Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), ethnic and youth groups, and the Port Harcourt Motor Spare Parts Dealers Union at the Government House Banquet Hall in Port Harcourt on Wednesday.

In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary Nelson Chukwudi, Fubara emphasized that recent public and covert activities by these adversaries signal a determined effort to destabilize the state.

He urged all stakeholders to avoid allowing such acts to occur.

“You are already aware of the political situation of our State where people are looking for every avenue to destabilize this State. We don’t need to give them that opportunity to carry out that act,” Fubara said.

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He continued, “And that is the reason why I, representing the government, and the service commanders, have always been in touch with you all, pleading that we should shelve this protest. And even if you have to do it, we should do it in a way and manner that it will not get out of control.”

Fubara warned that he possesses information about individuals being hired to cause mayhem in the state, stressing, “If anything happens here, we are going to be the greatest losers. Our property will be destroyed. Our economy will be destroyed. And when they finish, they will go back to their states.”

Drawing a comparison to the aftermath of unrest in Kenya, Fubara stated that Rivers State cannot afford such setbacks. “Look at what has happened in Kenya. It will take them another 20 years to rebuild those things that are being destroyed. In Rivers State, we are not that financially buoyant to now start retrogressing where we have already passed. Instead of maintaining and increasing what we have, we will be thinking of rebuilding, if destroyed. Let us not allow it happen.”

Acknowledging the economic hardships Nigerians face, Fubara noted that the Federal Government, led by President Bola Tinubu, is taking significant steps to address these challenges and secure a better future.

He urged activists to critically evaluate the reasons behind the planned protest to ensure they are not merely acting to satisfy personal grievances.

Fubara highlighted his administration’s efforts to meet the needs of Rivers residents, such as introducing free buses for students and providing a N4 billion loan for traders and small businesses.

Fubara also addressed the establishment of the Rivers State Scholarship Board in August, which has delayed the payment of bursaries and scholarships.

He clarified that scholarships would be reserved for specialized courses and that bursaries would be paid at the beginning of academic sessions.

The governor expressed gratitude to Rivers people for their ongoing support, which he considers crucial to his administration’s success.

He emphasized ongoing efforts to improve infrastructure in the health and education sectors.

Regarding the upcoming protest, Fubara acknowledged the concerns raised by the organizers but advised against proceeding with the protest, citing the potential for exploitation by those aiming to harm the state.

He assured that security agencies are prepared to enforce the rule of engagement to maintain order.

Comrade Success Jack, representing various civil society and community groups, confirmed that they would not participate in the protest due to the current tense political climate. He called for a reduction in the price of petroleum products to April 2023 levels, among other demands.

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