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Rivers Women Protest Against Emergency Rule, Demand Removal of Police Commissioner and Reinstatement of Governor Fubara

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene, April 16, 2025 

Hundreds of women in Rivers State took to the streets of Port Harcourt on Monday, intensifying their call for the immediate reinstatement of suspended Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the removal of the state’s Commissioner of Police, Adepoju, amid a controversial state of emergency declared by President Bola Tinubu. The protesters, organized under the Rivers Women Unite Prayer Group, also demanded an end to what they described as an “unconstitutional” emergency rule that has gripped the oil-rich state since March 18, 2025.

Clad in red attire and wielding placards with messages such as “Bring Back Governor Fubara,” “We Are Gagged,” and “Rivers Economy Suffers Under Ibas,” the women marched through major roads, including Aba Road, before advancing to the Rivers State Government House. Their chants of “We want Fubara” and solidarity songs underscored their frustration with the suspension of Fubara, his deputy, Ngozi Odu, and the entire Rivers State House of Assembly, which followed Tinubu’s appointment of Retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas as the state’s sole administrator.

The women’s demands come on the heels of a series of protests, including one last week where security operatives, including police, used tear gas to disperse approximately 200 women in Ahoada East, some of whom were elderly. Reports indicate that one elderly protester fainted during the clampdown, prompting condemnation from Fubara’s aides, who accused the police of excessive force. “The police tear-gassed them to the extent an old woman fainted,” an aide told Naija News, highlighting the heavy-handed response to peaceful demonstrations.

The Rivers Women Unite Prayer Group specifically called for the removal of Commissioner of Police Adepoju, accusing him of overseeing the suppression of peaceful protests. “We are here to tell President Bola Tinubu that since he declared a state of emergency, it has not been easy,” one protester stated, as captured in a viral video circulating on X. The group argued that the emergency rule, which they claim lacks constitutional backing, has caused economic hardship and stifled democratic governance in Rivers State.

The protesters also expressed dismay at the appointment of Ibas, who has suspended all political appointees and heads of government agencies, further deepening the sense of disenfranchisement. “Rivers people deserve better than this undemocratic arrangement,” a leader of the protest told Channels Television. They urged prominent Nigerians, including former presidents Olusegun Obasanjo, Muhammadu Buhari, and Goodluck Jonathan, to intervene and restore democratic institutions in the state.

The emergency rule stems from a protracted political crisis between Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, now the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory. Tinubu’s decision to suspend elected officials and impose a sole administrator has drawn widespread criticism, with Fubara’s kinsmen in Opobo/Nkoro Local Government Area and the Opobo Council of Chiefs labeling it a “blatant affront to democracy.” They argue that Rivers, a relatively peaceful state, does not warrant such measures compared to states like Borno or Zamfara, which face severe security challenges.

While some women in Port Harcourt, led by former Commissioner Inime Aguma, have rallied in support of the emergency rule, praising its restoration of peace, the majority of protesters remain defiant. Their placards also questioned the rationale behind targeting Rivers, with one reading, “Is the law different for Rivers State?” The women’s resolve was evident as some sat on the ground, refusing to disperse despite security presence, chanting, “No Sim, no Rivers State.”

Fubara, in a recent statement, expressed depression over the crisis but vowed a stronger comeback, urging residents to remain peaceful. “We believe in egalitarianism, and if our beliefs bring us some pain, so be it,” he said, emphasizing his commitment to justice. His administration’s projects, such as the reconstruction of the Rivers State House of Assembly and the Trans Kalabari road, have been cited by supporters as evidence of his effective governance, further fueling calls for his reinstatement.

The Rivers Women Unite Prayer Group has called for international and civil society support to defend democracy in the state. The ongoing protests signal a growing resistance to the emergency rule, with the women’s voices amplifying a broader demand for justice and democratic restoration in Rivers State

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Women in Port Harcourt Divided: Protests Highlight Tensions Over Rivers State Emergency Rule.

by Women Times on

Women protesting in Port Harcourt

By Prosper Mene, April 14, 2025, 

The streets of Port Harcourt, the capital of Rivers State, buzzed with emotion as hundreds of women took part in rival protests today, revealing the deep rift over the state’s ongoing political crisis. The demonstrations focused on a state of emergency declared by President Bola Tinubu on March 18, 2025, which led to the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the appointment of Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (rtd) as Sole Administrator. The women, split into two camps, voiced starkly different views on the emergency rule, reflecting the broader struggle for stability and democracy in Rivers State.

On one side, a large group of women, many dressed in white, marched peacefully along Aba Road toward the Government House, singing songs of solidarity and carrying placards with messages like “State of Emergency Is Constitutional,” “No More Fubara,” and “We Need Peace.” They expressed strong support for President Tinubu’s decision, arguing that the emergency rule has brought calm to a state rocked by political tensions. “Since the emergency was declared, we’ve seen peace,” one protester told reporters, echoing the group’s belief that the Sole Administrator’s leadership is a step toward stability. Some women also called for an investigation into alleged “inflated contracts” from Fubara’s administration, signaling frustration with past governance. Their rally was described as a show of unity, with participants emphasizing their desire to move past ethnic divisions and unrest.

Across town, another group of women took to the streets to oppose the emergency measures, demanding Fubara’s immediate reinstatement. Waving banners with slogans like “Bring Back Fubara” and “End Injustice,” they criticized the state of emergency as an undemocratic power grab. “We voted for our governor, and that choice should be respected,” one protester said, her voice rising above the crowd. These women, some of whom had protested days earlier on April 11, argued that the suspension of Fubara and the imposition of a Sole Administrator undermine the will of Rivers State’s people. They called the emergency rule “unconstitutional” and urged Nigeria’s leaders, as well as the global community, to intervene in defense of democracy. Their march was part of a series of demonstrations that began last week, with similar protests on April 11 drawing hundreds to demand the restoration of elected institutions.

The protests come against a tense political standoff in Rivers State, sparked by a feud between Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, now a key figure in Tinubu’s administration. The crisis escalated in March when Tinubu cited a “breakdown of governance” to justify the emergency declaration, suspending Fubara for six months. Since then, Rivers State has been a centrepoint for debates about democracy, power, and local autonomy.

For the pro-emergency protesters, the focus was on moving forward. “We’re tired of the fighting,” said a marcher in her 50s, clutching a sign that read “No Ethnic War in Rivers State.” Her group praised the Sole Administrator for restoring order and urged residents to support Tinubu’s plan. Meanwhile, the anti-emergency protesters framed their rally as a fight for justice. “This isn’t about one man—it’s about our rights,” a young woman declared, pointing to her placard demanding “Save Our Democracy.” Their frustration was palpable, building on earlier demonstrations that had seen tear gas used against protesters in Port Harcourt just a week ago.

Both marches remained largely peaceful, though the contrasting messages underscored the challenge of uniting Rivers State. The pro-emergency group’s rally was seen as a counter to the earlier anti-emergency protests, with some onlookers noting the organized turnout on both sides. “These women are speaking for all of us,” said a local trader watching the demonstrations. “But they want different things, and that’s the problem.”

The women of Port Harcourt have made it clear they won’t stay silent. Their protests, whether for stability under emergency rule or for the return of elected leadership signals a deep commitment to their communities and a call for leaders to listen to the people’s voice.

 

 

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INEC Rejects Recall of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene 

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has officially rejected a petition seeking the recall of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, citing its failure to meet constitutional requirements.

 

In a statement released on Thursday, INEC disclosed that the petition, submitted by some constituents of Kogi Central, did not satisfy Section 69(a) of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended).

This section mandates that a recall petition must be supported by signatures from more than half of the registered voters in the constituency. With Kogi Central having 474,554 registered voters, the petition required at least 237,278 valid signatures to proceed. However, after a thorough verification process, INEC confirmed only 208,132 signatures, equating to 43.86%—falling short by 29,146 signatures.

“The petition for the recall of the Senator representing the Kogi Central Senatorial District has not met the requirement of Section 69(a) of the Constitution. Therefore, no further action shall be taken on the matter,” INEC stated via its official X account, @INECNigeria.

The recall effort stemmed from controversy surrounding Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, who was suspended from the Senate on March 6, 2025, for alleged “gross misconduct” following a dispute with Senate President Godswill Akpabio. Some constituents, citing her suspension and dissatisfaction with her conduct, initiated the recall process, submitting the petition to INEC on March 24. The commission had initially acknowledged receipt of the petition, accompanied by six bags of documents purportedly containing over 250,000 signatures.

Despite the petitioners’ claims, INEC’s verification revealed discrepancies, including the cancellation of approximately 35,000 signatures during the administrative review. The constituents, led by spokesperson Salihu Habib, expressed frustration but vowed to persist, asserting that the validated 43.86% still reflected widespread discontent with the senator. “We will liaise with INEC within the full ambit of the constitution to demand transparency,” Habib said in a statement, hinting at potential further action.

Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan, however, celebrated the decision as a victory for democracy. In a post on Social Media, she praised INEC, stating, “INEC Nigeria, you did well. Senator Natasha H Akpoti Uduaghan Proudly Kogi Central.” In a subsequent statement, she took a swipe at her detractors, including former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello, claiming, “God has put to shame anti-democratic forces plotting my recall, including one of the most wanted persons by the EFCC.”

INEC emphasized that the review adhered to its 2024 Regulations and Guidelines for Recall, ensuring fairness and due process. Rotimi Oyekanmi, Chief Press Secretary to the INEC Chairman, defended the commission’s impartiality on Channels Television’s Politics Today, dismissing allegations of bias. “The petitioners failed to meet legal requirements. There’s no partisanship here,” he said.

The rejection marks the end of this recall attempt, though questions linger about whether the process could be reinitiated. Oyekanmi noted that the law does not explicitly limit repeat petitions, leaving room for speculation about future political maneuvers in Kogi Central.

 

 

 

 

 

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Eldest Daughter of Late Oyo Governor, Bisola Ajimobi Kola-Daisi, Passes Away in UK at 42.

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By Prosper Mene 

The family of the late former Oyo State Governor, Senator Abiola Ajimobi, is mourning the loss of his eldest daughter, Bisola Ajimobi Kola-Daisi, who passed away in the early hours of Thursday, March 27, 2025, in the United Kingdom. She was 42 years old.

Bisola, a prominent figure in Nigeria’s public and private sectors, reportedly succumbed to a brief illness. Until her untimely death, she served as the Special Adviser to Nigeria’s Minister of Budget and Planning, Atiku Bagudu, under President Bola Tinubu’s administration. Her passing marks another significant loss for the Ajimobi family, coming five years after the death of her father in 2020.

A statement from Bolaji Tunji, a former aide to the late Governor Ajimobi, confirmed the tragic news. “Yes, it has been confirmed,” Tunji told journalists in Ibadan, though further details surrounding her death remain undisclosed at this time.

Bisola was married to Kolapo Kola-Daisi, a respected Ibadan-born politician and bank executive, since 2010. The couple, who celebrated their engagement and wedding in grand ceremonies in Ibadan, Nigeria, on November 5 and 6, 2010, respectively, are survived by their three children. In a heartfelt social media post, Kolapo expressed his grief, writing, “The world has lost a shining star. Bisola was not just my wife; she was my partner in everything. Her spirit will live on in our children.”

Known for her contributions to governance, business, and philanthropy, Bisola carved a notable legacy in Nigeria. She served as the Managing Director of Grandex Nigeria Ltd., a leading retail and wholesale chain established in 1984, and founded Florence H., a luxury boutique that solidified her presence in the fashion and retail industry. Additionally, she supported her mother Florence Ajimobi’s ABC Foundation, a charitable initiative focused on uplifting disadvantaged communities in Ibadan.

The news of Bisola’s passing has elicited an outpouring of condolences from across Nigeria. Senator Sharafadeen Alli, representing Oyo South Senatorial District, described her as “a woman of grace, intellect, and dedication, who upheld the values of excellence and service.” He extended his sympathies to her husband, mother, Chief (Mrs) Florence Ajimobi, and the broader Kola-Daisi and Ajimobi families, praying for strength to bear the loss.

The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Oyo State chapter, also expressed shock and sadness, noting Bisola’s connection to their matron, Florence Ajimobi. “Her daughter was a shining example of her mother’s values and legacy,” the group said in a statement. “We pray that God grants the Ajimobi family the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.”

Bisola’s death has reverberated through Nigeria’s social and political spheres, with many reflecting on her vibrant life and sudden departure. A close friend of American reality stars Khloe Kardashian and Malika Haqq, she was also known for her luxurious lifestyle and strong presence in Nigeria’s high society.

As of now, the Kola-Daisi and Ajimobi families have not released an official statement regarding funeral arrangements. Nigerians, both at home and abroad, continue to mourn the loss of a woman whose life exemplified service, entrepreneurship, and familial devotion.

Bisola Ajimobi Kola-Daisi’s legacy is expected to endure through her contributions to her community and the lives she touched. May her soul rest in peace.

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Nigerian Women in Politics: Triumphs Shadowed by Turmoil.

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By Prosper Mene 

In Nigeria’s political arena, women are scripting a story of striking contrasts—celebrated trailblazers breaking barriers, yet battling a relentless tide of sexism and exclusion. Today, this duality took center stage as public discourse spotlighted both the triumphs and tribulations of Nigerian women in leadership, a narrative unfolding against the backdrop of a nation where female representation remains stubbornly low.

The triumphs are undeniable. Figures like Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the globally lauded Director-General of the World Trade Organization, and Aisha Yesufu, the firebrand activist who co-founded the #BringBackOurGirls movement, stand as beacons of what Nigerian women can achieve. Their names trended online today, praised for reshaping narratives of leadership and resilience. Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, one of just four women in Nigeria’s 109-member Senate, joined their ranks—her recent defiance against alleged harassment by Senate President Godswill Akpabio earning her widespread admiration. “These women are proof we belong at the table,” said Kemi Adebayo, a political analyst in Lagos. “They’re not just surviving—they’re rewriting the rules.”

 

Yet, the turmoil is equally stark. Akpoti-Uduaghan’s story took a dramatic turn today when the judge hearing her appeal against a six-month Senate suspension withdrew, citing pressure from Akpabio’s camp. The suspension, handed down after she accused Akpabio of sexual harassment, has ignited outrage among women’s groups, who see it as a blatant attempt to muzzle dissent. “This is what happens when women speak truth to power in Nigeria,” said activist Oby Ezekwesili, herself verbally attacked by a pro-Akpabio senator this week. The episode underscores a grim reality: with women holding just 3.7% of National Assembly seats—ranking Nigeria 179th globally for female representation, per UN data—progress remains a battlefield.

 

Social media captured the tension vividly. Posts today hailed heroines like Okonjo-Iweala and Yesufu, while others lambasted women like First Lady Remi Tinubu and Abike Dabiri-Erewa, head of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, for allegedly aligning with controversial political agendas. “We celebrate the queens who lift us up, but call out those who prop up the system dragging us down,” one X user wrote, summing up the polarized sentiment. The criticism reflects a broader frustration: even as some women ascend, others are seen as complicit in a patriarchy that keeps most locked out.

 

The numbers tell a sobering tale. Since Nigeria’s return to democracy in 1999, female representation has barely budged, a stark contrast to neighbors like Rwanda, where women hold over 60% of parliamentary seats. Cultural barriers—derogatory labels like “prostitute” hurled at female candidates, as seen in past Bauchi elections—and structural hurdles like exorbitant campaign costs keep the glass ceiling intact. “It’s not enough to have a few stars,” said Funmi Oladele, a gender studies professor at the University of Ibadan. “We need a system that lets every woman with vision step forward.”

 

Today’s developments hint at both hope and hurdles. Akpoti-Uduaghan’s fight has galvanized women’s networks, with protests planned in Abuja next week. Meanwhile, younger voices—like 28-year-old Zainab Yusuf, who announced her 2027 candidacy for a state assembly seat—signal a rising tide. “I’m inspired by the triumphs, but I’m running because of the turmoil,” Yusuf said. “We can’t wait for permission anym

ore.”

This gives an insight on the struggles and wins of women in the Nigerian political landscape.
(more…)

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Senator Natasha’s Suspension Battle Intensifies: Judge Steps Down Amid Bias Claims.

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By Prosper Mene 

The legal fight over Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s controversial six-month suspension from the Nigerian Senate took a dramatic turn today as Justice Obiora Egwuatu of the Federal High Court in Abuja recused himself from her case. The judge’s withdrawal, prompted by a petition from Senate President Godswill Akpabio alleging bias, has thrown yet another wrench into the embattled senator’s bid to overturn what she calls an “illegal” punishment, escalating a saga that has gripped the nation.

Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central and one of only four women in the 109-member Senate, was suspended without pay on March 6 following her allegations of sexual harassment against Akpabio. The suspension, upheld by a majority vote after the Senate ethics committee dismissed her petition on procedural grounds, stripped her of security details, barred her from the National Assembly, and halted her salaries—measures she and her supporters decry as vindictive. Today’s courtroom twist came as Egwuatu stepped aside, citing Akpabio’s challenge to his impartiality, and returned the case file to the Chief Judge for reassignment. No new hearing date has been set, leaving the senator’s fate in limbo.

The escalation has fueled outrage among women’s rights advocates and Akpoti-Uduaghan’s constituents, who see the suspension as a blatant attempt to silence a rare female voice in Nigeria’s male-dominated legislature. “This is a travesty,” said Chioma Agwuegbo, executive director of TechHerNG, a women’s rights group. “The Senate’s actions, now compounded by this judicial delay, send a chilling message: speak out, and you’ll be crushed.” Protests erupted outside the National Assembly earlier this month, with supporters chanting “Akpabio must go,” while counter-demonstrations backing the Senate president underscored the polarized public response.

Akpoti-Uduaghan’s troubles began in February when a seating dispute in the Senate chamber spiraled into a public clash with Akpabio. She accused him of tying her legislative motions to demands for sexual favors—an explosive claim he denies. The Senate insists her suspension stems not from the harassment allegations but from “gross misconduct,” including disruptive behavior and defiance of chamber rules. Yet, critics, including human rights lawyer Femi Falana, call it “legislative recklessness,” arguing it flouts natural justice and disenfranchises Kogi Central voters.

The legal battle has been fraught from the start. Egwuatu had issued an interim order on March 4 halting the Senate’s disciplinary process, only for the ethics committee to proceed anyway—a move Akpoti-Uduaghan’s team branded as contemptuous. Akpabio, meanwhile, has fought back, filing an appeal on March 20 to stay the High Court proceedings, claiming the judge’s rulings undermined legal norms. Today’s recusal hands him a tactical win, though it delays resolution further.

Public sentiment, especially online, is a cauldron of anger and support. Akpoti-Uduaghan, undeterred, has taken her case global, addressing the United Nations earlier this month and vowing to continue serving her people “till 2027 and beyond.”

 

 

 

 

 

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Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduagha.n Rejects Apology Rumors in Senate Suspension Dispute

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By Prosper Mene 

Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, the embattled lawmaker from Kogi Central, has categorically denied reports circulating today that she offered an apology to the Nigerian Senate over the incident that triggered her six-month suspension on March 6, 2025. The senator’s firm rebuttal intensifies an already contentious saga that has gripped Nigeria’s political landscape.

In a statement issued Monday, Akpoti-Uduaghan dismissed the apology claims as “baseless,” asserting her resolve to stand by her actions and statements. “I have not apologized to the Senate, and I reject any suggestion to the contrary,” she said. “These rumors are a deliberate attempt to undermine my position and confuse the public.” Her suspension stemmed from allegations of sexual harassment leveled against Senate President Godswill Akpabio—claims he has denied—followed by what the Senate described as her disruptive conduct.

The controversy has thrust gender and power dynamics in Nigerian politics into the spotlight, with Akpoti-Uduaghan, one of only four female senators in the 109-seat chamber, framing her punishment as retaliation for speaking out. “This is bigger than me,” she added. “It’s about ensuring women in this country are not silenced for demanding respect and accountability.”

The denial coincides with escalating pressure from her constituents, who reportedly submitted a recall petition to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on March 24, claiming signatures from over half of Kogi Central’s registered voters. While INEC has yet to confirm the petition’s validity, the move signals a potential new front in the senator’s battle to retain her seat.

Akpoti-Uduaghan remains defiant amid these challenges. She has legal action pending against Akpabio, seeking 100 billion naira ($64,000) in damages for defamation, and another suit contesting her suspension, with a court date set for March 25. Her recent BBC interview, where she likened the Senate to a “cult” and voiced safety fears after losing her security detail, continues to fuel public discourse.

Reactions are sharply divided. Supporters laud her as a trailblazer challenging entrenched patriarchy, while detractors argue her conduct has alienated her base, justifying the recall push. As INEC reviews the petition and her legal battles loom, Akpoti-Uduaghan’s next moves will be closely watched.

The senator urged Nigerians to “disregard the falsehoods” and promised to keep fighting for her constituents.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Former Congresswoman Mia Love Dies at 49 After Courageous Battle with Brain Cancer.

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By Prosper Mene 

Mia Love, the trailblazing former U.S. Representative from Utah and the first Black Republican woman elected to Congress, passed away peacefully on Sunday, March 23, 2025, at her home in Saratoga Springs. She was 49.

Love’s death, announced by her family on social media, marks the end of a three-year struggle with glioblastoma, an aggressive form of brain cancer, which she faced with the same resilience that defined her groundbreaking political career.

“With grateful hearts filled to overflowing for the profound influence of Mia on our lives, we want you to know that she passed away peacefully today,” her family wrote in a statement posted on Social media. “In the midst of a celebration of her life and an avalanche of happy memories, Mia quietly slipped the bands of mortality and, as her words and vision always did, soared heavenward.”

Love’s journey began as the daughter of Haitian immigrants, a narrative she often shared as a testament to the American dream. Elected in 2014 to represent Utah’s 4th Congressional District, she served two terms until 2018, breaking barriers as a Black Republican woman in a predominantly white, conservative state. Before Congress, she was a city councilwoman and mayor of Saratoga Springs, roles that shaped her belief in limited government and community-driven solutions.

Diagnosed with glioblastoma in March 2022, Love outlived her initial prognosis of 10 to 15 months, a testament to her tenacity. Earlier this month, her daughter Abigale revealed that the cancer had stopped responding to treatment, shifting the family’s focus to cherishing their remaining time together. Love’s final public words, in an open letter published by Deseret News on March 11, expressed gratitude and hope for America’s future, underscoring her enduring optimism.

Her death has drawn an outpouring of tributes. Utah Governor Spencer Cox called her a “true friend” and “trailblazer,” while Senator Mike Lee praised her as a “dear friend” whose legacy inspired countless Utahns. Former colleague Adam Kinzinger and CNN’s Jake Tapper also expressed condolences, reflecting her broad impact across political and media spheres.

Love’s political career was not without controversy. After losing her seat in 2018 to Democrat Ben McAdams by fewer than 700 votes, President Donald Trump publicly mocked her, saying, “Mia Love gave me no love, and she lost. Sorry about that, Mia.” Undeterred, she transitioned to a role as a CNN political commentator and remained a vocal figure, denouncing political violence as recently as July 2024.

Survived by her husband Jason and their three children—Alessa, Abi, and Peyton—Love leaves behind a legacy of service, courage, and historic firsts. Her family has promised details on funeral services and a public celebration of her life in the coming days.

 

 

 

 

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Political Crisis in Rivers State Sparks Fears for Women’s Safety Amid Emergency Declaration.

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene 

A deepening political crisis in Rivers State, triggered by President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of a state of emergency earlier this week, has raised urgent concerns about the safety and well-being of women in the oil-rich region. The unrest, sparked by the vandalism of critical oil infrastructure, including a recent blast on the Trans-Niger Pipeline, has displaced families, disrupted livelihoods, and left women particularly vulnerable to the fallout.

On March 18, President Tinubu announced the emergency measures in a nationwide broadcast, suspending Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and all state lawmakers for six months. Citing “disturbing incidents of pipeline vandalism” and a lack of action from the state government, Tinubu appointed retired Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas as the military administrator to oversee Rivers State. The decision has intensified an already volatile political rift between Fubara’s administration and lawmakers loyal to his predecessor, further destabilizing the region.

While the emergency declaration aims to restore order, its ripple effects are being felt most acutely by women. “Conflict always hits women hardest,” said Ebiere Okonkwo, a Port Harcourt-based women’s rights advocate. “When families are uprooted and markets shut down, women bear the brunt—struggling to feed their children, facing increased violence, and losing what little economic stability they had.” Reports from local communities indicate that the heightened military presence and uncertainty have restricted movement, limiting access to essential services like healthcare and food supplies.

The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has sharply criticized the suspension of elected officials, calling it “unconstitutional” and a threat to democratic governance. “Section 305 of the Constitution does not grant the President the power to dissolve a democratically elected government under the guise of emergency rule,” said NBA President Mazi Afam Osigwe in a statement. The opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP) echoed these concerns, labeling the move a “state capture” attempt by Tinubu’s All Progressives Congress (APC).

Amid the political firestorm, women’s groups in Rivers State are sounding the alarm. The Rivers Women’s Coalition, a grassroots organization, has called for immediate action to protect vulnerable populations. “We’re seeing a rise in displacement and insecurity,” said coalition spokesperson Mercy Alabo. “The government must prioritize safe shelters, emergency aid, and measures to prevent gender-based violence as this crisis unfolds.”

The economic stakes are high. The Trans-Niger Pipeline, a vital artery for Nigeria’s oil exports, generates millions of dollars daily, and its disruption has compounded the state’s woes. Local residents fear that the combination of political instability and economic losses will deepen poverty, with women—who often manage household finances—left to pick up the pieces.

Women’s advocates are urging both federal and state authorities to address the human cost of the crisis. “This isn’t just about politics or oil,” Okonkwo emphasized. “It’s about the lives of women and families hanging in the balance. We need stability—and we need it now.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Nigerian Women Entrepreneurs Rally for Economic Equity at Lagos Summit.

by Women Times on

By Prosper Mene 

 

Hundreds of Nigerian women entrepreneurs descended on Lagos today for the “Women in Business Summit,” demanding bold policy changes to secure greater economic inclusion in a nation where their potential remains largely untapped. Held at the Eko Convention Centre, the event brought together business owners, policymakers, and international advocates to address the stark disparities facing women-led enterprises.

Funke Adeyemi, founder of a fast-growing fintech startup, set the tone with a fiery opening speech. “We’re not asking for handouts—we’re demanding a level playing field,” she declared, citing data that women-owned businesses in Nigeria receive less than 15% of available venture capital despite driving significant job creation. Adeyemi pointed to the success of initiatives like “SheTrades Nigeria,” which has empowered over 5,000 women to break into export markets since its launch in 2023, as proof of what’s possible with proper support.

The summit’s urgency was amplified by recent commitments made at the UN Commission on the Status of Women (CSW69) earlier this month, where Nigeria pledged to advance gender equity. Yet attendees, including small-scale traders and tech innovators alike, voiced frustration over slow progress. “Access to loans, training, and markets shouldn’t be a privilege—it’s a right,” said Chidinma Okoro, a textile entrepreneur from Aba, echoing a common refrain.

Government representatives present, including the Minister of Women Affairs, promised to review proposals for tax incentives and microfinance schemes tailored for women. International delegates from the World Bank and UN Women also pledged technical support, spotlighting Nigeria as a key player in the global push for women’s economic empowerment.

As the day unfolded, the summit trended online under #WomenMeanBusiness, with participants vowing to hold leaders accountable.

 

 

 

 

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