The Rivers State Government under Governor Siminalayi Fubara has denied reports alleging that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s official portrait was removed from the Government House.
In a statement issued by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Information and Communications, Honour Kuru Sirawoo, the allegation was described as “misleading, irresponsible and inflammatory.”
The claim, attributed to one Bestman Innocent Amadi of the Rivers State chapter of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), alleged that Governor Fubara removed the President’s portrait as an act of disrespect and ingratitude towards President Tinubu.
Reacting to the report, Sirawoo clarified that the Rivers State Government has no policy, directive or intention to disrespect the President or the Federal Government.
He stressed that Governor Fubara maintains what he described as a robust and collaborative relationship with President Tinubu and aligns with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which he said has continued to deliver tangible benefits to Rivers State.
“The insinuation that the Governor acted out of disrespect is unsupported by verifiable facts and should be discountenanced,” the statement said.
Sirawoo further expressed disappointment that an organisation presented as a youth body would resort to what he termed incendiary language, personal attacks and unsubstantiated allegations.
He warned that such rhetoric could undermine peace and stability, particularly at a time when Rivers State requires calm, dialogue and responsible leadership.