The Deputy Governor of Rivers State, Prof. Ngozi Odu, has dismissed social media reports claiming she has resigned from office, labeling them as false and malicious.
Rumors circulating on platforms like Facebook had suggested that Odu had stepped down, sparking speculation about internal discord within Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s administration.
In a statement issued in Port Harcourt on Wednesday, her media aide, Owupele Benebo, refuted the claims, describing them as fake and misleading. Benebo reaffirmed Odu’s position as deputy governor and emphasized her unwavering commitment to the Fubara-led administration.
The statement read, “The Office of the Deputy Governor of Rivers State wishes to categorically debunk the false and misleading reports suggesting that Her Excellency, Prof. Ngozi Nma Odu, has resigned. Contrary to these baseless claims, Her Excellency remains committed to her duties as Deputy Governor, a position she was duly elected to serve alongside His Excellency, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, the Executive Governor of Rivers State.”
The statement further highlighted Odu’s dedication to supporting Governor Fubara in delivering the dividends of democracy to the people of Rivers State. It described her as a seasoned public servant and academic whose leadership and expertise are invaluable to the administration.
“As a seasoned public servant and academic, Prof. Odu is dedicated to supporting the governor in his efforts to deliver the dividends of democracy to the good people of Rivers State. Her exemplary leadership and expertise remain invaluable to the administration, and she is unwavering in her commitment to His Excellency, Sir Dr. Siminalayi Fubara,” the statement added.
The deputy governor urged the public to disregard the false reports, stressing that she has neither resigned nor has any intention of doing so. The clarification aims to quell the rumors and reaffirm the stability of the Fubara-Odu administration as it continues to focus on governance and development in Rivers State.