Fresh Protests Erupt In Rivers As Women’s Group Backs ssEmergency Rule.
A group of women staged a protest in Rivers State on Monday in support of the emergency rule declared in the state, further deepening the political divide sparked by the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
The demonstration, which began at 7am, saw scores of women marching through the streets, chanting solidarity songs and carrying placards bearing messages such as “Emergency rule is Constitutional”, “Investigate Fubara’s bloated Contracts award”, and “Rivers women need peace in our state”.
The protest was led by Inime Aguma, a former Commissioner for Social Welfare and known loyalist of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike. Aguma had previously resigned from her cabinet role amid the escalating tensions between Governor Fubara and Wike.
This latest protest comes just days after another women’s group took to the streets demanding the reinstatement of the suspended governor. The duelling demonstrations reflect the growing political unrest in the state, as both factions attempt to rally public support.
During Monday’s protest, participants strongly denied allegations of being sponsored or receiving payment for their actions. However, this has not quelled public criticism. Several residents have openly condemned the protest, suggesting that the use of women in politically-charged demonstrations is becoming a troubling norm in the state.
“It is a shame that protests have now become an occupation in Rivers,” said one resident, Emma Amadi. “We now have women being paid N5,000 to march for things they barely understand. How did we get here?”
Another observer described the situation as “deeply unfortunate,” criticising what he viewed as a betrayal of conscience. “If I saw my mum among them, I’d chase her back home,” he said. “Shameless women.”
Despite the backlash, the protesting women maintained that the state of emergency had brought relative calm to the region and urged federal authorities to sustain efforts to restore peace and order.
The political crisis in Rivers continues to draw national attention, with prominent figures and civil society groups weighing in on the constitutional and ethical implications of the emergency rule and the leadership struggle within the state.
As the situation unfolds, many in Rivers are calling for dialogue, transparency, and genuine efforts to prioritise the wellbeing of the citizens above political interests.
