Politics
Rivers: Pro-Democracy Group Writes UN, Seeks Urgent Intervention to Save Nigeria’s Democracy
A civil society group, Save Democracy Vanguard, has written to the United Nations over the declaration of emergency rule in Rivers State.
In the letter addressed to the United Nations Secretary-General and signed by Dr. Ali Mohammed Ali, Executive Director of the group, Save Democracy Vanguard described the situation in Rivers as a national emergency and accused the Federal Government of allowing the illegal suspension of democracy in Nigeria’s oil-rich state.
The group warned that the country’s democracy is “on the red line” and could collapse if the international community fails to act now.
“This is no longer an internal matter. What we are witnessing in Nigeria, particularly in Rivers state, is a complete deviation from the democratic process. The international community must not look away while constitutional order is being dismantled with the silent backing of the federal authorities,” the letter reads.
“A major Nigerian state has been handed over to the military in broad daylight. The installation of a sole administrator in place of elected officials and the removal of Governor Siminalayi Fubara without due process amount to a civilian coup and should be treated as such.
“It is deeply troubling that while terrorists and bandits continue to sack communities and murder innocent citizens across several states without the declaration of emergency rule, the federal government chose to impose what is effectively military rule in Rivers over a political disagreement between two individuals.”
Save Democracy Vanguard described the actions in Rivers as setting a dangerous precedent that could destabilise the entire country if not addressed immediately.
“The declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers is an assault on the will of the people. A state that voted for its leaders now finds itself under the grip of a single individual with no mandate. The sole administrator, Ibok-Eket Ibas, has sacked local government officials and heads of government institutions in the state and he’s ruling by decree. This is a tragedy for democracy in Africa’s most populous nation.”
The group noted that the crisis in Rivers has triggered widespread protests, particularly among women who have taken to the streets to demand the reinstatement of Governor Fubara and the restoration of democratic rule.
“Our mothers, sisters, and daughters in Rivers are leading peaceful demonstrations daily. They are crying out for justice, for democracy, and for the return of their elected governor. They are not only defending Fubara but defending the principle that power belongs to the people,” the group added.
On the economic front, the group said the ongoing crisis has crippled the state and discouraged investment.
“Businesses are shutting down. Workers are afraid. Contractors have fled. The state’s economy is at a standstill. No investor wants to operate in a state where the rule of law is suspended, and the constitution is optional.
“We are calling on the UN and all lovers of democracy to step in immediately. Nigeria’s democracy is bleeding; Rivers is the latest victim. If nothing is done, this Rivers experiment will spread to other states and the country may collapse into anarchy. The people have done their part—now, the international community must not fail them,” the group said.
Cover
Renewed Hope Group Welcomes Tinubu’s Appointment of Faleke as Deputy Secretary for Party Outreach
The Renewed Hope Advocacy Network (RHAN) has described the appointment of Rt. Hon. James Abiodun Faleke as Deputy Secretary for Party Outreach, Engagement, and Mobilisation of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors (South West zone) as a well-earned recognition of merit, loyalty, and proven capacity.
In a statement released today and signed by its Convener, Opialu M. Opialu, the grassroots organisation praised President Bola Tinubu for entrusting the strategic role to a man widely regarded as one of his most dependable and longest-serving political allies.
“Rt. Hon. James Faleke’s appointment is the logical elevation of a tested hand who has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership, organisational brilliance, and rock-solid loyalty to President Tinubu and the Renewed Hope project,” Opialu stated.
The statement highlighted Faleke’s critical contribution during the 2023 presidential campaign, where he served as National Secretary of the APC Presidential Campaign Council.
Describing the lawmaker as the engine room coordinator of nationwide mobilisation efforts, the group credited him with bridging ethnic, regional, and ideological divides, galvanising party structures, and sustaining momentum even amid intense opposition.
“Despite daunting challenges, he never flinched. His strategic mind, tireless work ethic, and unshakeable belief in Asiwaju’s vision were decisive factors in delivering the Tinubu-Shettima victory,” the statement added.
RHAN also underscored Hon. Faleke’s legendary loyalty, noting that for over two decades he has remained a consistent pillar of support for President Tinubu across multiple political battles and campaigns.
“In an era when political fidelity is increasingly rare, Rt. Hon. Faleke stands out as a shining example of principle, sacrifice, and steadfastness.
“His faithfulness has inspired countless party members and remains one of the strongest proof to the enduring bond between him and our President,” Opialu remarked.
On the legislative front, the statement celebrated Faleke’s distinguished record as the representative of Ikeja Federal Constituency.
Looking ahead, RHAN expressed confidence that Faleke’s wealth of experience will now supercharge grassroots engagement, strengthen party structures in the South West, and deepen national support for the implementation of President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
“We are convinced that this appointment will inject fresh energy into our mobilisation efforts and set the stage for even greater electoral and governance successes in the years ahead,” Opialu concluded.
The Renewed Hope Advocacy Network wished Rt. Hon. James Abiodun Faleke “resounding success” in his new assignment and prayed for continued wisdom, strength, and divine guidance as he discharges his duties.
Politics
RSHA continues impeachment of Fubara, writes Chief Judge
The Rivers House of Assembly has continued its resolution to impeach Gov. Siminalaye Fubara and his deputy, Nma Odu.
All 26 members of the Assembly on Friday unanimously resolved during plenary to proceed with the impeachment process against both Fubara and Odu.
Consequently, the lawmakers resolved to write to the Chief Judge(CJ) of the State, as enshrined in Section 188 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).
They are urging the CJ to constitute a seven-man investigative panel to examine the alleged gross misconduct leveled against the governor and his deputy.
Politics
Sen. Yari’s constituency office lauds APC e-registration exercise in Zamfara
Hon. Sha’ayau Sarkinfawa, the Coordinator, Sen.. Abdul’aziz Yari Constituency office for Zamfara West Senatorial District, has commended the ongoing nationwide membership e-registration exercise of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Sarkinfawa, who stated this while speaking with journalists in Gusau on Thursday, stated that the exercise would promote integrity and credibility in the party membership.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the APC nationwide e-registration exercise commenced recently and would run until the end of this month.
He described the exercise as the bedrock for internal democracy.
“The APC e-registration would strength the party’s membership.
“The ongoing APC e-registration exercise is a wise political initiative and imperative determined to upgrade the data of the progressive party members electorally,” Sarkinfawa further said.
He commended President Bola Tinubu for making the APC proud and wished him more strength ahead of the 2027 General Elections.
According to him, Yari and the Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, had already built a stronger political platform in the APC structure of the state.
“Therefore, we are expecting a tremendous success.at the end of the exercise” he added.
Sarkinfawa further said, the exercise would provide an ample opportunity for all the eligible members of the party to be duly captured in its digital register.
He added, “It will also ensure accuracy, transparency and integrity in the party’s membership.
“The exercise guarantees sanity and credibility of the party’s membership register.
“A data-driven membership registration is expected to capture every eligible member of the party across the 147 political wards of the state.
“Therefore, our members should participate fully in the exercise and make sure they are captured electronically.
“I therefore urge all APC members and stakeholders in the state to take full advantage of the e-registration and participate promptly and responsibly.$
Sarkinfawa further described the APC as the most dominant political party in Zamfara and Nigeria. adding that it would record massive victories in the 2027 General Elections.
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