In a display of remarkable nonchalance amidst a brewing constitutional storm, the Governor of Rivers State, His Excellency Siminalayi Fubara, has light-heartedly characterised a formal impeachment notice served upon him by the State House of Assembly as nothing more than a “love letter.”
Speaking on Saturday at the prestigious grand finale of the 2026 NPA Port Harcourt International Polo Tournament, the Governor remained resolute, insisting that his mandate remains untarnished and his administration firmly in control.
A Recurring Theatricality
Addressing a distinguished audience of sporting enthusiasts and international guests, Governor Fubara noted that political drama has become an unintended tradition of the annual tournament. He recalled that the events of 2024 and 2025 were similarly overshadowed by political skirmishes, suggesting that such “challenges” have now become a predictable, if unwelcome, fixture of the polo season.
“I had hoped that 2026 would be the finest year yet,” the Governor remarked. “However, they have just delivered a ‘love letter’ to me. You understand the nature of these things.”
Despite the gravity of the legislative move against him, the Governor used the platform to reassure both the domestic public and the international community of the state’s enduring stability. “I am here. I remains the Governor of Rivers State, and we shall continue to deliver upon the promises we made to the people,” he declared.
Security and Stability
Governor Fubara pointed to the seamless execution of the week-long tournament as a testament to the safety and security of the realm. He argued that the absence of any security infractions during such a high-profile international gathering serves as the ultimate rebuttal to claims of instability.
“That is the most vital consideration,” he stated. “Ensuring the safety of our people and our guests is the fundamental responsibility of government, and we have acquitted ourselves well.”
Personal Ties and Presidential Persuasion
The Governor’s appearance at the tournament was underscored by a poignant personal tribute. He revealed that he attended primarily to honour the memory of his late brother, the esteemed Engineer and Architect Roland Cookey-Gam. The Governor was seen offering support to the late architect’s widow and son, who were guests of honour at the event.
In a candid revelation, Governor Fubara also disclosed that his attendance was prompted by a measure of “friendly persuasion” from the highest office in the land. He light-heartedly claimed that the President had “ambushed” him earlier in the week, jokingly threatening to withhold certain federal commitments to Rivers State should the Governor fail to grace the tournament.
“The President made it quite clear,” Fubara shared with a chuckle. “He said if I did not attend this event, he might reconsider some of the projects he promised us. Thus, between the memory of my dear brother and the President’s insistence, my presence here was a certainty.”
As the dust settles on the polo field, the political arena in Port Harcourt remains charged. However, by choosing to respond to an impeachment notice with such public composure, Governor Fubara appears intent on projecting an image of a leader unruffled by the winds of opposition.
