Fubara, Is this a ‘Take-It-Back’ Punch against President Tinubu?

By Iso Fiberesima The primary responsibility of government at all levels is to protect lives and property while balancing citizens’ constitutional rights. However, in the interest of safety and security, governments often limit the enforcement of these rights. This delicate balance was put to the test in Rivers State, where a recent protest exposed a […]

By Iso Fiberesima

The primary responsibility of government at all levels is to protect lives and property while balancing citizens’ constitutional rights. However, in the interest of safety and security, governments often limit the enforcement of these rights. This delicate balance was put to the test in Rivers State, where a recent protest exposed a matrix of governance, disloyalty, and rebellion.

Despite President Ahmed Bola Tinubu’s federal government being open to peaceful protests, it has consistently advised against violent demonstrations, which can be hijacked by malicious elements. In line with this stance, government officials across the country, including state governors and appointees, have worked to minimize the impact of processions and rallies.

However, Rivers State, known for its loyalty to the central government, took a different approach. Governor Fubara allegedly ignored calls from the Federal government to mitigate the risks associated with the protest

In what appears to be a shocking revelation, Rivers State Governor, Mr. Siminalayi Fubara, apparently indicted President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, criticizing his low democratic scorecard and failure to manage the economy and stem the tide of inflation. Governor Fubara threw a jab at President Tinubu, while responding to a crowd of protesting youth, who gathered in front of the Government House, Port Harcourt on August 1, 2024.

Governor Fubara espoused his views, saying, “I am in your protests. The demands are germane. Hardship. Bad governance. The cost of living cost of food, house rent, and high cost of medical bills. I am thanking you because you are here to demand a better Nigeria. Like I told you yesterday, I already know your problems. Our youth, I know that you are hungry. I agree with you that there is hunger. Before you leave here, I will give you a small thing, at least, to take and buy pure water and bread. Aluta Continua.”

This was probably done by the Governor and his Chief of Staff to prove a point to the Federal Government that they have the support of the youths. During the protest, Governor Fubara acknowledged the successes of the protest, confirming he knew it would be non-violent. He aligned with the youth, while blaming the Federal Government for the people’s suffering due to failed policies.