A women’s empowerment programme in Rivers state became a protest as attendees walked out, chanting support for suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara. The disruption spotlights growing local unrest over federal intervention in the state’s leadership crisis.
- Attendees of the First Lady’s empowerment event in Port Harcourt staged a walkout during a speech by the administrator's wife.
- Protesters chanted “Bring back Fubara,” rejecting President Tinubu’s appointed sole administrator, Ibok-Ette Ibas.
- The walkout underscores deep local dissatisfaction with the ongoing suspension of Governor Fubara and his cabinet.
- President Tinubu declared a state of emergency in Rivers in March, citing prolonged political tension.
- Civil protests have since erupted, demanding the restoration of democratic governance in the state.
“We don’t know Ibas; we want Sim!” one woman shouted while exiting the venue. For many attendees, the protest was more than symbolic—it was a demand to reclaim a voice in how their state is governed. “They brought us here to empower us, but ignored our real choice,” another said.
The growing resistance to the federal caretaker approach raises questions about long-term political stability in Rivers. Will the presidency address local demands or deepen the rift by holding its position? What happens next may redefine centre-state relations in Nigeria.
