RIVERS WOMEN: THE REAL AND THE FAKE

By Ruth C. Mordi
17th April 2025

A disturbing and deeply unsettling drama is currently unfolding in Rivers State, one that strikes at the very heart of democracy and womanhood.

Recently, a massive group of women, dressed in black, staged a peaceful protest in Port Harcourt, the state capital. Their message was loud, clear, and resonated with the majority of Rivers people: a strong condemnation of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu\'s declaration of a state of emergency in the state, and a bold demand for the full restoration of democratic structures, including the return of Governor Siminalayi Fubara to Government House.

The protest was well-organized, disciplined, and void of any violence or confrontation. The sheer number and dignity of these women were impressive, even intimidating. Their voices echoed the frustrations of many in the state, and their message landed with great clarity.

However, just a few days later, a second group clad in white took to the streets of Port Harcourt in what can only be described as a counter protest.

Unlike the first group, these women were widely believed to have been sponsored. Their objective? To praise President Tinubu\'s declaration of a state of emergency and to call for its continuation.

This group was led by former commissioners and political loyalists of Barrister Nyesom Wike. They were escorted and protected by the Nigerian Police, a move that further raised eyebrows and lent credence to the belief that the event was orchestrated.

For many, these women in white represented a disgraceful betrayal of womanhood. Their actions, instead of promoting peace and justice, sought to undermine a genuine grassroots movement.

Their presence on the streets was less about conviction and more about political convenience.

One thing is now certain: Rivers State will never be the same again.

The political structure that Barrister Wike is desperately trying to protect perhaps in service to a 2027 ambition is crumbling. Rivers people have seen through the facade, and the tide has turned.

If Wike and Tinubu think they still control the pulse of Rivers State or even the larger Niger Delta they are gravely mistaken.

There is growing sentiment that Barrister Wike may soon find it unsafe to return to Rivers State. Many citizens have already declared him persona non grata, and there\'s increasing tension around his properties in the state.

The people feel betrayed, and their anger is rising.

Yes, President Tinubu may impose and sustain a state of emergency for now. He may even get a favourable ruling from the judiciary. But let it be known whatever fire they are stoking in Rivers State may ultimately spiral beyond control, burning everything and everyone in its path.

Barrister Nyesom Ezenwo Wike may well go down in history as the most self-serving and destructive enemy of his own people.

We watch. We wait. Time will tell.