Reinstate Governor Fubara, Rivers Protesters Urge President Tinubu
Tensions flared again in Rivers State on Tuesday as hundreds of protesters flooded the streets of Port Harcourt, calling on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to reinstate suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
The demonstrators, dressed in black to symbolize mourning for what they described as a “democratic injustice,” marched from Aggrey Road in the Old Port Harcourt Township to Government House.
They carried placards with bold messages such as “We Want Back Our Governor,” “Fubara is the Pride of Rivers People,” and “Bring Back Sim Fubara.”
Speaking to journalists during the protest, one of the coordinators said the group represents a coalition of concerned Rivers citizens who feel deprived of their democratic choice.
“This is not just about Sim Fubara; it’s about the sanctity of democracy. We elected him, and he must be allowed to serve. We are appealing to President Tinubu to listen to the voice of the people,” the protest leader stated.
The protest follows the federal government’s declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers State and the controversial appointment of Vice Admiral Ibok Ete Ibas (rtd) as the sole administrator of the state. Governor Fubara’s suspension has sparked widespread criticism from civil society groups and opposition leaders, who view the action as unconstitutional.
Supporters of Governor Fubara also used the occasion to pledge political loyalty to President Tinubu, promising to support his second-term ambition in 2027 if their demands are met.
“We are not enemies of the president,” another protester said. “In fact, we are saying if he restores our governor, Rivers will stand firmly behind him come 2027.”
Meanwhile, legal action is already underway, with seven state governments, mostly from the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), filing a case at the Supreme Court challenging the constitutionality of the president’s actions.
As the political crisis deepens in Rivers State, many are closely watching Abuja’s next move. Analysts warn that how the federal government responds could have significant implications for Nigeria’s democratic institutions and the 2027 general elections.
