Anderson Cooper Speaks Out: The Controversy Surrounding Rivers State And Baseless Allegations

Human Rights Group Slams Government Over Unfounded Allegations Against Rivers State Governor

Listen up, folks. The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has come out swinging against some pretty heavy accusations being thrown around by top officials in the Nigerian government. Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, and Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, have accused Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State of being involved in militant activities in the Niger Delta. But here's the kicker—there’s no concrete evidence to back these claims, and that’s a big problem.

Naija News is reporting that HURIWA isn’t holding back. They’re calling out these allegations as completely baseless and unsupported by any credible evidence. This isn’t just a minor disagreement; it’s a serious issue that could destabilize not just Rivers State but the entire Niger Delta region.

Onwubiko Speaks Out: A Call for Accountability

In a statement issued in Abuja on Monday, HURIWA’s National Coordinator, Emmanuel Onwubiko, took direct aim at the comments made last week by Fagbemi. Fagbemi accused Governor Fubara of "tele-guiding militants" to attack oil facilities. Now, that’s a pretty serious charge, but where’s the proof? Onwubiko pointed out that no substantial evidence has been provided to back these claims, and that’s a major concern.

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Meanwhile, Onanuga, in a separate opinion piece, supported the federal government’s decision to declare a state of emergency in Rivers State. She cited intelligence reports that allegedly link Governor Fubara to militant groups. But again, where’s the evidence? Onwubiko criticized the reliance on unverified intelligence, stating that these kinds of allegations can have serious consequences.

Fubara Denies Allegations: A Call for Investigation

Governor Fubara didn’t take these accusations lying down. In an official statement earlier on Monday, he denied any involvement with militant groups and dismissed viral videos showing explosions on oil and gas facilities as "fake and malicious." He’s urging security agencies to investigate the source of these videos and take action against those responsible.

HURIWA praised Fubara’s commitment to peace and constitutional governance, saying it’s disheartening to see such character assassination coming from the highest levels of the federal government. "Governor Fubara has consistently demonstrated his dedication to peace and stability," Onwubiko emphasized. "It’s unfortunate to see these baseless accusations tarnishing his reputation."

The group also questioned why federal authorities have failed to present tangible evidence to support their claims. They argued that spreading unproven allegations isn’t just unprofessional—it sets a dangerous precedent in Nigeria’s democratic space.

HURIWA’s Message: Stop the Rumor Mill

HURIWA urged Fagbemi and Onanuga to refrain from "pettiness and rumor mongering" and to base their statements on facts. "It’s disgraceful that at a time when Nigerians are yearning for stability and good governance, top officials of the federal government are preoccupied with baseless accusations," the statement read. "This only serves to tarnish Nigeria’s image on the global stage."

The group also condemned the state of emergency in Rivers State, calling it "unconstitutional, unnecessary, and politically motivated." They argued that no evidence of war or a breakdown of law and order, as required by Section 305 of the 1999 Constitution, has been presented. "The AGF and other federal agents must remember that governance based on rumors is not legitimate," HURIWA pointed out.

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A Call for Legal Action and Transparency

HURIWA encouraged Governor Fubara to consider legal action against those spreading false claims. Even if the judiciary is perceived as compromised, it’s crucial to set the record straight by exploring all available legal avenues. The group also urged 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," HURIWA concluded. "Nigeria’s democracy deserves better, and it’s time for accountability and transparency to take center stage."