Amid renewed political tension in Rivers State, Professor Ngozi Nma Ordu, the suspended Deputy Governor, has once again debunked widespread rumours alleging her resignation from office, insisting she remains committed to her constitutional duties and the ongoing reconciliation efforts in the state.
In a firm rebuttal released on Thursday, May 23, 2025, the Head of her Press Unit, Mr. Owepele Benibo, described the claims circulating on social media and certain blogs as “false information from the pit of hell,” reiterating that Professor Ordu has neither resigned nor hinted at stepping down.
“The Deputy Governor has not resigned. She is still very much a part of the Rivers State administration under Governor Siminalayi Fubara,” Benibo stated in a telephone conversation with Daily Post Nigeria. “These unfounded rumours are being pushed by those who seek to destabilise the fragile peace efforts currently underway in the state.”
This marks the second time in three months that the Deputy Governor has been falsely reported to have tendered her resignation. The first wave of speculation surfaced in early March 2025 when several Facebook users from Rivers State falsely claimed that Professor Ordu had vacated her post. Her media team swiftly debunked those rumours at the time, accusing political detractors of spreading misinformation to fuel division within the government.
Professor Ordu’s suspension, which was confirmed earlier this year by Governor Fubara amid internal wranglings, added a fresh layer of intrigue to Rivers State’s already complex political landscape. While the specifics of the suspension remain unclear, it is believed to be linked to the protracted fallout between the governor and his former political mentor, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.
Political analysts have observed that Ordu’s position in the power struggle has made her a key player in the larger battle for political control in Rivers State. Her refusal to resign despite mounting pressure suggests a possible alignment with Fubara’s reconciliatory approach rather than yielding to factional provocations.
The reemergence of resignation rumours has sparked mixed reactions among Rivers residents and political observers. While some perceive the rumours as part of a targeted campaign to distract from governance, others worry about the broader implications of sustained misinformation on public trust and peace in the region.
Mr. Benibo cautioned the public against spreading unverified information and urged journalists and citizens alike to rely on official channels for updates.
“We want to thank the people of Rivers State for their support and encourage them to disregard these fake reports. Professor Ordu remains loyal to the constitution and is determined to see Rivers State achieve lasting peace,” he said.
Sources close to the state’s inner political circle have hinted that Professor Ordu is actively involved in behind-the-scenes consultations aimed at stabilising the political atmosphere in Rivers State. Her commitment aligns with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s broader national agenda for political stability, especially in states where party rivalry and leadership crises have posed significant challenges.
A senior government official who spoke anonymously disclosed that “the Deputy Governor’s continued presence, even in suspension, reflects a broader understanding that her experience and calm demeanour are vital in moments of political tension.”
Despite recurring attempts to tarnish her reputation or force her hand, Professor Ngozi Nma Ordu has made it abundantly clear that she has not, and does not intend to, resign from office. Her stance appears to be one of cautious resilience, grounded in a sense of duty to the people of Rivers State and the principles of good governance.
As the state continues to navigate its way through political disputes and reconciliation processes, all eyes remain on the Deputy Governor and the role she may yet play in determining the future of Rivers State’s political stability.