The Rivers Women Unite for SIM (RWUS), under the banner of the Rivers Women Prayer Group, have marked this year’s Father’s Day with a dual message of honour and concern—celebrating Governor Siminalayi Fubara as a symbol of resilience, while calling for the immediate reinstatement of democratic governance in Rivers State.
In a statement signed today by Comrade Glory N. Sunday and Mrs. Belema Oningiye, and made available to newsmen in Port-Harcourt, the group reaffirmed its commitment to prayer, advocacy, and peaceful dialogue.
The group further decried the continued political instability and suspension of democratic processes in the state, now entering its third month under emergency rule.
“Our economy is suffering. Women and youth bear the burden,” the statement declared. “Despite the declaration of a state of emergency, effective governance has come to a standstill. Development has slowed, public services have dwindled, and economic activities have plummeted.”
The women noted that it is the most vulnerable—women, children, and the youth—who are suffering the most under the current political climate.
While extending Father’s Day greetings to Governor Fubara and commending him for his fortitude amid political turmoil, the group made a passionate plea to key political figures, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governor Fubara, and the Minister of the FCT, Chief Nyesom Wike, to put aside personal rivalries for the sake of peace and progress.
“This is not a time for rivalry. It is a time for responsibility,” the group emphasized, referencing the popular proverb: “When two elephants fight, it is the grass that suffers.”
They described the effects of the political crisis as far-reaching: families are struggling, businesses are collapsing, community projects have been abandoned, and hope is rapidly fading for many.
The women called on President Tinubu to use his “fatherly wisdom and timely leadership” to intervene once again and ensure the restoration of full democratic structures in the state. They also appealed to all Rivers people—regardless of political affiliation—to unite in the interest of peace and justice.
“The absence of democratic governance is choking the state’s progress and stifling the voices of the people,” the statement said. “Let all political leaders hear the cries of the people. Let them come together not as adversaries, but as brothers with a shared duty to uphold the peace, unity, and future of Rivers State.”
“We believe that through humility, forgiveness, and a sincere commitment to the common good, Rivers State shall rise again,” the statement further reads.
