Thousands of women in Rivers State have once again taken to the streets in a powerful protest against the ongoing state of emergency, demanding the immediate restoration of democratic governance and an end to what they describe as a politically motivated and oppressive regime.
Under the banner of the Rivers Women Unite Prayer Group, the protesters called for the reinstatement of Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the state legislature, condemning the federal government’s decision to suspend democratic institutions and impose a Sole Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (rtd).
In a joint statement signed by Dr. Nancy Chidi Nwankwo and Dr. Vivian Ige-Elenwo, the group expressed outrage over what they described as escalating authoritarianism, accusing Vice Admiral Ibas and the Rivers State Commissioner of Police, CP Olugbenga Adepoju, of systematic abuse of power and targeted repression of dissenting voices.
“Rather than fostering reconciliation, the Sole Administrator has deepened political divisions and dismantled democratic structures to serve the interests of his appointers,” the statement read.
The women condemned the brutal police crackdown on their peaceful protest held on Friday, April 11, 2025, where security forces allegedly used tear gas and force to disperse demonstrators. They contrasted this with a counter-protest reportedly sponsored by the administration on April 14, during which hired thugs masquerading as women were protected by security personnel.
“This selective enforcement and use of state power to silence genuine concerns while promoting sycophantic displays is not only unjust but dangerous,” the statement continued.
The group also highlighted the severe economic consequences of the emergency rule, including business closures, stalled investments, and worsening poverty — conditions that disproportionately affect women and children.
“The economic fallout is evident. Rivers State’s economy is in decline, and our families are suffering. The emergency rule is not only undemocratic, it is unsustainable,” they said.
They called on Nigerians of conscience, civil society groups, and the National Assembly to speak out and act urgently to reverse what they called an “illegal and deeply unpopular” move. The women further questioned why more dangerous regions of Nigeria plagued by terrorism have not seen similar federal action.
“It is unconscionable that over 10,000 security operatives have been deployed in Rivers not for protection, but for political intimidation,” the statement added, citing fresh incidents of tear gas attacks on protesting women in Mbiama earlier this week.
The immediate end to the state of emergency in Rivers State
Full restoration of all democratic institutions, including the elected Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara
Removal of CP Olugbenga Adepoju for alleged bias and abuse of power
Redeployment of military personnel to genuinely insecure regions in need of protection
Finally, they called on the international community to speak up and intervene diplomatically, urging them to help protect democracy and human rights in Nigeria.
“Our nation stands at a crossroads. We must resist the descent into tyranny. The people of Rivers deserve justice, peace, and the right to thrive in a truly democratic society,” the statement concluded.
