From Tony John, Port Harcourt
Thousands of women under the Rivers Women for Good Governance banner marched in Port Harcourt on Monday, endorsing President Bola Tinubu’s state of emergency declaration in Rivers State.
Clad in white, they expressed support for Sole Administrator Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (retd.) in restoring peace and democratic governance.
“The declaration of state of emergency is constitutional,” their placards read, praising Ibas as “God-sent” and rejecting the reinstatement of suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
The group urged Ibas to probe Fubara’s alleged bloated contracts, insisting there is no tribal war in the state. Margaret, a protester, said, “Before now, everybody was afraid… some individuals and militant groups were threatening to cause mayhem.” Nengi added, “There was uncertainty everywhere… the declaration has calmed down everything.” Peace noted, “We are all wearing white symbolising peace… no one is threatening fire and brimstone.”
This follows last week’s protest by women in black opposing the emergency rule and demanding Fubara’s return, highlighting a divide in sentiments over the state’s leadership crisis.