Hundreds of women in Rivers State took to the streets on Friday in a powerful protest against the proposed declaration of a state of emergency in the oil-rich South-South state, calling it a politically driven move to derail democracy.
Led by activist Nancy Chidi Nwankwo, the women voiced their outright rejection of the emergency rule, insisting that the current situation in the state does not constitute any genuine threat to national security that would warrant such an extreme measure.
Chanting solidarity songs and holding placards with inscriptions like “Democracy Must Prevail,” “Reinstate Our Governor,” and “No to Political Intimidation,” the protesters demanded the immediate restoration of all democratic structures, including the full powers of Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
“We will not sit back and watch democracy be hijacked in the name of a state of emergency,” Nwankwo declared during the rally.
“This is nothing short of an unconstitutional imposition of military rule disguised as a security measure. It is unjustified, unacceptable, and a betrayal of the people’s mandate.”
The women also called on notable Nigerian figures, including former presidents, elder statesmen, civil society groups, and members of the international community to prevail on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to rescind what they termed a “grave injustice against the people of Rivers.”
They further emphasized their commitment to non-violent resistance, asserting that the protests would continue until their demands are met.
“Our stand is clear: we will defend our rights, our votes, and our democracy. Peacefully, but resolutely,” the group stated in a joint communique.
The protest adds to growing public outcry over recent political developments in Rivers State, as tensions continue to simmer between rival power blocs within the state and at the national level.