As Nigeria approaches the annual May 29 Democracy Day celebrations, the Rivers Women Prayer Group has raised alarm over the continuing state of emergency in Rivers State, questioning what the future holds for the region under what they describe as a stifling administrative arrangement.
In a press statement read by Niger Delta activist Ms. Ann-Kio Briggs, the women’s group reiterated their call for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to urgently lift the emergency rule, which they claim has severely hindered development and left the state under the control of a “Sole Administrator.”
“Our state is bleeding under the emergency rule,” the group declared, adding that the ongoing situation has created a vacuum in governance and disrupted the equitable deployment of resources. “Women and children are the most affected,” they noted, expressing deep concern about the toll the crisis is taking on the most vulnerable segments of the population.
The group also urged the National Assembly’s oversight committees to actively engage relevant stakeholders to restore peace and democratic order in the state.
They voiced support for reconciliation efforts and called for the reinstatement of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, who they described as the legitimate leader of Rivers State.
Appreciating the support from Nigerians and the international community, the women emphasized their resolve to continue advocating for justice, peace, and the restoration of democratic governance in Rivers State.