A group of women in the Treasure Base of the Nation (Rivers) staged a protest during an empowerment event linked to the office of Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, making it clear they would not accept any address from Mrs. Ibas, wife of the recently appointed sole administrator of the state, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas (rtd).
Chanting slogans such as “We don’t know you” and “Mrs. Vallery Fubara is Rivers State First Lady,” the women walked out of the venue in a show of allegiance to the elected governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, GSSRS, and his wife, Mrs. Vallery Fubara.
The protest highlighted tensions surrounding the political developments in the state, particularly the appointment of a sole administrator and the perceived sidelining of the current administration. The women declared that only Sen. Tinubu or Mrs. Fubara would be welcome to speak at such events, rejecting any other figure seen as imposed.
Their action was both symbolic and direct—a reflection of grassroots resistance and an affirmation of loyalty to the state’s current leadership. For many of the protesters, the issue extended beyond protocol to what they described as a matter of legitimacy and representation.
The demonstration adds a new dimension to the unfolding political narrative in Rivers State, as local communities continue to assert their preferences in the face of mounting political realignments.
