A major protest is set to take place in Rivers State on April 7, 2025, as civil rights groups, activists, and concerned citizens rally against the state of emergency imposed by the Federal Government and other governance issues affecting the region.
The demonstration, organized by the Take-It-Back (TIB) Movement, aims to challenge what it describes as the suspension of democracy in Rivers State, the harsh economic policies of the Tinubu administration, and the misuse of the Cybercrime Act to suppress free speech.
Key Demands of the Protest:
- Immediate end to the emergency rule and reinstatement of Governor Siminalayi Fubara and the Rivers State House of Assembly.
- Repeal of the Cybercrime Act, which activists claim is being used to silence journalists, social media influencers, and government critics.
- An end to bad governance, with demands for economic relief as citizens struggle under rising inflation, job losses, and worsening living conditions.
The Rivers State Coordinator of TIB, Amaniye King Amaniye, emphasized that the protest is not just about politics but about the livelihood and rights of the people.
“The people of Rivers State have suffered too much. Our elected government was suspended overnight, oil-producing communities are under military surveillance, and our economy is crumbling. We are marching for justice,” he said.
Protest Route and Security Concerns
The protest will take place in Port Harcourt, with supporters expected to gather at key locations across the city. Organizers have assured that it will remain peaceful and lawful, urging security agencies to protect demonstrators rather than suppress their voices.
The TIB Movement has formally notified the Rivers State Police Command, requesting security coverage to prevent any violence or intimidation.
“We have the constitutional right to protest. We demand the support of law enforcement to ensure the safety of all participants,” stated Damiete Erekosima, TIB General Secretary.
Growing National and International Concern
Beyond Rivers State, the protest is expected to spark similar demonstrations across Nigeria, with activists in the United States planning a march to the White House to demand international attention on the crisis.
A coalition of Nigerians in the diaspora has also condemned the emergency rule, warning that it sets a dangerous precedent for democracy in the country.
As tensions rise, all eyes will be on April 7 to see how the Federal Government responds to the demands of Rivers people.
