In a show of solidarity, hundreds of protesters gathered at the entrance gate of Government House in Port Harcourt on Friday, expressing their support for the state Governor, Sir Siminilayi Fubara. The peaceful protest, which commenced as early as 7 am, included participants from various groups such as students unions, civil liberty organizations, and the Hausa community.
Comprising a diverse range of individuals, the protesters occupied the Government House main gate along Azikiwe road. Comrade Levi Okoru, the coordinator of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), explained the purpose of the protest, stating, “We are here to demand that our governor speaks to us on what happened in the meeting he attended in Abuja at the instance of the President where an eight-point resolution was reached.”
Among the key resolutions, it was determined that the commissioners who had resigned from Governor Fubara’s administration would resume their offices. Additionally, Martin Amaewhule, a Wike loyalist who was among the 27 lawmakers that defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC), would be recognized as the Speaker.
Comrade Levi Okoru emphasized that the protest was a solidarity visit, seeking clarity from Governor Fubara on the outcomes of the Abuja meeting. He stated, “This is a solidarity visit, and as our father, he went on a trip. Now that he is back, we want him to brief us. We also want him to know that no matter the pressure he is passing through, Rivers State students are solidly behind him.”
Comrade Abbey Precious Sime-Ipiri, the National President of Rivers State students, echoed the sentiment of support, highlighting Governor Fubara’s commitment to paying student bursaries. Regarding the peace agreement, Abbey emphasized that the directives from the President were not legally binding. The protesters, through their peaceful demonstration, aimed to show unwavering support for Governor Fubara amidst the current political developments.
