Shettima’s Remarks Had No Link to Rivers State Crisis, Says Presidency

The Presidency has firmly denied claims that Vice President Kashim Shettima’s recent remarks at a public event were connected to the political situation in Rivers State involving Governor Siminalayi Fubara and President Bola Tinubu. In a statement issued on Thursday by Stanley Nkwocha, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications (Office of the Vice President), the Presidency described the interpretations as misleading, irresponsible, and a deliberate attempt to twist the Vice President’s comments. The clarification followed speculation that Shettima’s speech at the launch of a book in Abuja contained veiled criticisms related to the current tension in Rivers State. According to the statement, Shettima was recalling events from his time as Governor of Borno State and drawing attention to past challenges to democratic governance, not current political developments. “During his remarks at the launch of the book titled ‘OPL 245: The Inside Story of the $1.3 Billion Oil Block’ written by former Attorney General Mohammed Bello Adoke, the Vice President made historical references to his own experience in office and the challenges he faced, including attempts to remove him through judicial means,” Nkwocha said. The statement emphasized that there was no mention of Rivers State, Governor Fubara, or any reference to the decisions taken by President Tinubu regarding the state’s political situation. It warned that any attempt to link Shettima’s speech to ongoing issues in Rivers was a misrepresentation of his intent. The Presidency reaffirmed that Vice President Shettima remains committed to the administration’s goals and stands firmly with President Tinubu in upholding constitutional order and democratic governance. It added that there is no conflict or disagreement between the two leaders, contrary to the narratives being pushed in some quarters. Nkwocha also urged the media and political commentators to avoid sensationalizing public statements and to act responsibly in their reporting. He cautioned that spreading misinformation for political advantage only undermines national unity and public trust in government institutions. As political developments in Rivers State continue to unfold, the Presidency reiterated that its actions are guided strictly by constitutional principles and the need to safeguard peace and stability across the country.