“I’m Still the Governor”: Fubara Dismisses Impeachment Notice as ‘Love Letter,’ Vows to Protect Peace in Rivers

Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has broken his silence on the impeachment moves against him and his deputy, Prof. Ngozi Odu, dismissing the notice issued by the Rivers State House of Assembly as nothing more than a “love letter.” The governor made the remark in a calm but defiant tone, reaffirming his authority and commitment to governance amid an intensifying political crisis in the state.

Governor Fubara spoke on Saturday while attending the grand finale of the 2026 Port Harcourt Polo Tournament, where he served as Special Guest of Honour. This appearance marked his first public reaction since the State House of Assembly formally wrote to the Chief Judge of Rivers State, requesting the constitution of a seven-man panel to investigate allegations of gross misconduct levelled against him and his deputy.

In his address, Fubara stressed that despite the impeachment notice and the political tension surrounding it, he remains firmly in office as the duly elected governor of Rivers State. He underscored that his administration’s top priority remains the protection of lives and property, assuring residents that he would not, directly or indirectly, support any action capable of destabilising the state.

Referring sarcastically to the impeachment notice, the governor said, “It is really unfortunate that each time you are having this 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.” The comment, which drew laughter from the audience, was widely interpreted as a jab at the lawmakers pushing the impeachment process.

Fubara added emphatically, “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 reiterated that governance would not be derailed by political distractions, no matter how intense.

The governor also expressed satisfaction with the successful hosting of the week-long polo tournament, noting that it was conducted without any security incident. According to him, the peaceful atmosphere during the event served as clear evidence that Rivers State remains safe for residents, visitors, investors, and tourists, contrary to negative narratives often associated with the state.

“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,” he said.

However, Fubara did not hide his disappointment over the recurring political instability in the state, lamenting that such crises have coincided with the polo tournament for three consecutive years. He described the situation as unfortunate, especially given the efforts of his administration to project Rivers State as a peaceful and investment-friendly destination.

Despite the ongoing political challenges, the governor assured that his administration would continue to discharge its constitutional responsibilities diligently. He pledged continued support for individuals, organisations, and initiatives genuinely committed to the development and progress of Rivers State, regardless of political affiliations.

In addition, Fubara promised that his government would work towards upgrading the status of the Port Harcourt Polo Club, which is reputed to have one of the best natural grass polo pitches in Nigeria. He encouraged both local and foreign participants to enjoy the serenity of Port Harcourt and to help counter negative perceptions about the state by sharing positive and accurate information about their experiences.

The event attracted notable dignitaries, including the Argentine Ambassador to Nigeria, as well as polo players from across the country and international teams from India and Argentina. Their presence, Fubara noted, further demonstrated that Rivers State remains open, safe, and welcoming despite political headwinds.

As the impeachment process unfolds, Fubara’s comments signal a governor determined to project confidence and control, even as the political battle in Rivers State continues to generate intense debate and speculation nationwide.