ENUGU, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)- Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has reaffirmed his position as the substantive leader of the state, pledging to continue upholding peace, security, and public safety despite the lingering political tensions.
Speaking on Saturday as a special guest at the grand finale of the 2026 Port Harcourt Polo Tournament in Port Harcourt, the governor said his administration would not support any action capable of threatening lives or property in the state.
Fubara stressed that the protection of residents and visitors remains the core responsibility of government, noting that his administration is fully committed to the mandate given to it by the people of Rivers State.
“What is important is that I am still the governor of Rivers State, and we will continue to do what we have promised the Rivers people,” he said.
The governor expressed satisfaction over the peaceful conduct of the week-long polo tournament, describing the absence of any security incident as proof that Rivers State remains safe for residents, visitors, and investors.
“I am happy that you had your tournament for one week, and the president of the Port Harcourt Polo Club told me there was no incident. It shows that we are working and that Rivers State is safe. That is the basic responsibility of government,” Fubara added.
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However, the governor lamented the recurring political crises in the state, noting that they have coincided with the annual polo tournament for three consecutive years.
“It is really unfortunate that each time you are having your tournament, there is always one problem. In 2024, you came to me and made some promises, but that January was hell. In 2025, you didn’t bother to come to me. This 2026, which I thought would be the finest, just landed me a love letter,” he said.
Despite the political challenges, Fubara assured that his administration would remain focused on governance and continue to support individuals and groups genuinely committed to the development and progress of Rivers State.
He also pledged that the state government would work towards upgrading the Port Harcourt Polo Club, widely regarded as one of the finest natural grass polo pitches in Nigeria.
The governor urged guests and polo players, including foreign participants, to enjoy the serenity of Port Harcourt and help counter negative narratives about the state by sharing accurate and positive information.
Dignitaries at the final match included the Argentine Ambassador to Nigeria, while polo players from across the country participated, alongside teams from India and Argentina, in the week-long tournament.
The event, he said, once again demonstrated that Rivers State remains open, peaceful, and welcoming, despite the political turbulence surrounding the state.