Tension rose in Rivers State on Monday as security operatives fired teargas at women protesting in support of Governor Siminalayi Fubara and against the appointment of a Sole Administrator to govern the state.
The protest, which took place in Port Harcourt, was attended by over 200 women who marched through the streets, chanting solidarity songs and demanding the reinstatement of Fubara, who was recently removed from office amid a deepening political crisis.
The women carried placards with bold messages, including “Ibas leave us alone”, “Our democracy is threatened”, and “No Sim, no Rivers State.” Their chants echoed the frustration felt by a growing number of residents over what they describe as an undemocratic and forceful takeover of the state government.
According to eyewitnesses, the protest began peacefully, with the women marching from various parts of the city and converging near the Government House. But as they advanced, security personnel, including members of the Nigeria Police Force, blocked their path and ordered them to disperse.
When the protesters refused to leave, the operatives resorted to force, firing tear gas canisters into the crowd. This caused panic as the women ran in different directions, coughing and screaming.
A viral video circulating on social media later showed some of the women weeping and holding their eyes after inhaling the tear gas. Others could be seen sitting on the ground, shouting in anger and frustration.
“No Sim, no Rivers!” they cried. “Why are they doing this to us? We only want our governor back.”
Speaking to journalists after the protest was dispersed, one of the leaders of the group, Mrs. Florence Gbaranee, said the women had come out to demand justice for Governor Fubara, whom they believe was wrongly removed from office.
“We are not criminals. We are not violent. We came out as mothers and citizens of Rivers State to speak our minds peacefully. Why should they use tear gas on us?” she asked.
Mrs. Gbaranee said the group would not give up, and that the people of Rivers have the right to choose their leaders through democratic means.
Another protester, Mrs. Grace Nwankwo, condemned the alleged involvement of traditional rulers and political elites in what she called “a betrayal of democracy.”
“The Ibas and some top leaders think they can decide for us. But we, the women of Rivers State, are saying no. Enough is enough,” she said.
The protest is the latest chapter in an ongoing political crisis that has rocked Rivers State in recent months. Governor Siminalayi Fubara, who took office in 2023 under the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has been locked in a fierce political battle with his predecessor and former political godfather, Nyesom Wike, now the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory.
The conflict between the two men worsened in late 2024, with reports of a power struggle over control of the state’s political structure. Tensions escalated after some lawmakers in the state House of Assembly began impeachment proceedings against Fubara, citing alleged misconduct and a breakdown of governance.
Despite widespread calls for peace and dialogue, the crisis deepened, leading to the controversial decision by federal authorities to appoint a Sole Administrator to oversee the affairs of the state—an action many have described as unconstitutional and a threat to democracy.
The appointment has been met with outrage by several civil society groups, legal experts, and now, ordinary citizens.
The use of force against peaceful protesters has raised concerns among rights groups, who are calling for an investigation into the incident.
“This is a clear violation of the citizens’ right to peaceful assembly,” said Mr. Emmanuel Okon, a human rights advocate based in Port Harcourt. “The use of tear gas on unarmed women expressing their political opinion is not only unacceptable, it is a sign of rising authoritarianism.”
He called on the Inspector-General of Police and the National Human Rights Commission to look into the actions of the security agents involved.
While supporters of Governor Fubara continue to call for his return, the federal and state authorities have so far maintained silence on the matter. Some observers say the political tension in Rivers State could spiral out of control if not handled properly.
Political analyst, Dr. Boma Worlu, warned that the ongoing crisis could lead to a breakdown of law and order if urgent steps are not taken to restore confidence in the democratic process.
“We are sitting on a keg of gunpowder. If the grievances of the people are ignored, especially in a state like Rivers which plays a vital role in the country’s economy, the consequences could be dire,” he said.
As of Tuesday morning, there had been no official statement from the Rivers State Government or the Nigeria Police regarding Monday’s protest and the use of force.
However, protesters have vowed to continue pressing for the return of their elected governor and for the immediate removal of the Sole Administrator, whose legitimacy they reject.
“We are not afraid. This is our state. We voted for Sim and we want Sim,” said one of the women in the viral video.
The political situation in Rivers remains tense, with more protests likely in the coming days unless decisive actions are taken to address the demands of the people and restore democratic order.
