Thousands of women clad in white took to the streets of Port Harcourt on Monday, April 14, 2025, to express their support for President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State.
The protest, led by Ifeyinwa Aguma, former Commissioner for Social Welfare and close ally of Nyesom Wike, marched from Garrison flyover to Isaac Boro Park, carrying bold placards that read “State of Emergency is Constitutional” and “We Don’t Want Fubara”.
The women, under the Rivers Women for Good Governance banner, voiced their backing for Sole Administrator Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd.) in restoring peace and democratic governance in the state.
They praised Ibas as “God-sent” and rejected the reinstatement of suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara. The protesters believe the declaration of a state of emergency is constitutional and necessary for peace and stability in the state.
The group urged Ibas to investigate alleged bloated contracts under Fubara’s administration.
They emphasized that the state of emergency declaration has brought calm to the state, dispelling uncertainty and fear.
The women expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for taking bold steps to restore peace in Rivers State.
However, the protest highlights a deepening divide among groups in Rivers State.
Last week, a group of women protested in support of Fubara, demanding his return to office.
The contrasting views underscore the complex dynamics at play in the state’s leadership crisis.
