The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has criticized the Attorney General of the Federation (AGF), Lateef Fagbemi, and the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, for accusing Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, of Involvement in militant activities in the Niger Delta.
In a statement released on Monday in Abuja, HURIWA described the allegations as baseless and lacking credible evidence, warning that such claims could destabilize the region.
Federal Officials’ Allegations
The controversy began when AGF Fagbemi accused Governor Fubara of “tele-guiding militants” to attack oil facilities in Rivers State. In a separate opinion piece, Onanuga supported the federal government’s decision to declare a state of emergency in the state, citing intelligence reports allegedly linking the governor to militant groups.
“These are serious allegations that could destabilize not just Rivers State, but the entire Niger Delta,” HURIWA’s National Coordinator, Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, said.
The group criticized the federal officials for relying on unverified intelligence, emphasizing that no concrete evidence had been presented to substantiate their claims.
Governor Fubara Denies Allegations
Governor Fubara, in an official statement earlier on Monday, rejected the accusations and distanced himself from any militant groups. He described viral videos allegedly showing explosions on oil and gas facilities as “fake and malicious.”
HURIWA commended Fubara’s call for security agencies to investigate the source of the videos and take legal action against those responsible.
“Governor Fubara’s unwavering commitment to peace and constitutional governance has been clear in all his public engagements. It is disheartening to see such character assassination coming from the highest echelons of the federal government,” Onwubiko stated.
HURIWA’s Criticism of the State of Emergency
The human rights group also condemned the federal government’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State, calling it “unconstitutional, unnecessary, and politically motivated.”
According to HURIWA, there is no evidence of war or a breakdown of law and order to justify the measure, as required under Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution.
“The AGF and other federal agents must be reminded that the Supreme Court ruling, which is now being used to justify executive overreach in Rivers State, does not legitimize governance based on rumors,” Onwubiko added.
Call for Legal Action and Independent Investigation
HURIWA urged Governor Fubara to consider taking legal action against those spreading false claims. The group also called on security agencies to conduct a thorough and transparent forensic investigation into the allegations and incidents in Ogoniland and other parts of Rivers State, free from political interference.
“The reckless practice of labeling peaceful citizens as militants without evidence is not only irresponsible but threatens to plunge Rivers State into unnecessary chaos. Nigeria’s democracy deserves better,” the statement concluded.
Bottom Line
HURIWA’s condemnation of the federal government’s allegations reflects concerns about the politicization of security matters and the potential destabilization of Rivers State. The group’s demand for legal action and independent investigations underscores a call for evidence-based governance and the protection of democratic processes.
