By Our Correspondent

National News – Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara has dismissed rumours that he defected from the All Progressives Congress to the Nigeria Democratic Congress, insisting he remains loyal to the ruling party despite mounting political tension in Rivers State.

The governor made the clarification on Wednesday during an inspection of newly completed health facilities in Rumuigbo, Obiakpor Local Government Area.

His remarks came amid controversy surrounding the disqualification of several APC House of Assembly aspirants believed to be his loyalists.

Fubara stated that reports suggesting he had abandoned the APC were false and misleading.

According to him, social media interpretations and political speculation should not be mistaken for facts.

He stressed that he remained committed to the APC and would continue supporting the party’s broader interests ahead of the political activities linked to the 2027 elections.

During the visit, the governor inspected the newly completed General Hospital and the remodelled Neuropsychiatric Hospital in Rumuigbo.

He explained that the projects were initiated after the government discovered serious healthcare challenges in the area, particularly in mental health and access to emergency medical services.

Fubara noted that residents previously depended heavily on the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital, which he described as too distant for many surrounding communities.

The governor said the projects were now fully completed and would improve healthcare delivery for residents in Rumuigbo, Rumuola, Rumuolumeni and neighbouring communities.

Health officials who conducted him around the facilities commended the state government’s intervention in the sector.

Meanwhile, anxiety continues within the Rivers APC as aspirants awaiting the outcome of appeals over their disqualification remain uncertain about their political future.

The appeal panel, led by Abdul Mahmud, concluded its sittings on Wednesday in Port Harcourt after reviewing several petitions submitted by aggrieved aspirants.

Mahmud also warned politicians against sending congratulatory or personal messages to panel members, saying such actions could create wrong impressions during the appeal process.