Emergency rule: Opobo women protest, demand Fubara’s reinstatement

Hundreds of women from the ancient Opobo Kingdom in Opobo/Nkoro Local Government Area of Rivers State on Thursday staged a protest, demanding the immediate reinstatement of their son, Governor Siminalayi Fubara.

The women condemned the declaration of a state of emergency and the purported suspension of the governor, describing both actions as unconstitutional.

They also rejected the appointment of a sole administrator to oversee the affairs of the state.

Led by the President of the Opobo Women Association, Amaopuorubo Felicia Pepple, the women expressed deep disappointment over the six-month suspension of Governor Fubara following the emergency rule declaration.

The protest began with a solemn prayer session at King Jaja Monument Square, with the women clad in black attire as they sought divine intervention.

A cleric, Venerable Michael Dappa of Christ Army Church, Opobo Diocese, delivered a sermon titled “The battle is the Lord’s”, inspiring the protesters.

The women then marched to the popular Water Side, chanting “Bring back our Governor,” as they sat on the bare ground and listened attentively.

In her speech, Pepple emphasised the governor’s positive impact on the state’s development and appealed to President Bola Tinubu to use his good office to ensure Governor Fubara’s swift return as governor.

The women urged all Nigerians of conscience to support their cause, stressing that the people of Rivers State continue to suffer under the emergency rule, saying, “We voted for our peaceful and amiable Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara. We say no to emergency rule.”

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They highlighted a strong yearning for democratic governance and the restoration of their elected leader to continue the progress and prosperity he initiated in Rivers State.

They expressed sadness that Opobo Town, usually renowned for its vibrant Easter festivities, was silent this year following Fubara’s suspension.

A resident of Opobo, Blessing Accra-Jaja, described the holiday as “particularly sad,” noting that the town’s major landmarks, including King Jaja Monument Square and popular hotels, saw little or no activity.

“Business owners and boat operators reported sharp declines in patronage, with many describing Opobo as a ‘ghost town’,” she said.
Accra-Jaja urged the National Assembly Reconciliation Committee and President Tinubu to reinstate Governor Fubara, in hopes of restoring peace and the town’s festive spirit.

She called on the community to pray for the governor’s return, while pleading with the President to give him a second chance, stressing that the people of Rivers State and Nigeria love and support him.