Rivers Women Protesters Deny Fubara’s Sponsorship, Say Demonstrations Are Voluntary and Prayer-Led

Women staging protests in Rivers State have firmly denied allegations that their demonstrations are being funded by Governor Siminalayi Fubara. The group has been holding peaceful rallies and prayer gatherings in Port Harcourt in opposition to the proposed declaration of emergency rule in the state and the appointment of Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas.

Speaking on behalf of the women, group coordinator Christiana Tamunoberetowari emphasized that their actions are entirely self-motivated and not influenced by political patronage.

“Absolutely not! The governor has not given us a single naira,”

Tamunoberetowari stated.

“I’m a two-time Vice Chairman and I coordinate activities in my local government area. Everything we’ve done has been voluntary. Market women leave their stalls to join us. The governor isn’t even aware of the specifics of our actions. We’re not being sponsored.”

She likened their advocacy to an act of maternal responsibility, adding,

“You don’t need to pay a mother to care for her child. This is our home—we’re doing this for the sake of our state.”

Another coordinator, known as Ebony, echoed her sentiments, highlighting the group’s spiritual commitment and optimism about resolving the state’s ongoing political turmoil.

“It’s by grace that discussions are now happening, and we believe the governor will return stronger. These women have been praying for him since his inauguration, long before the current crisis. We’ll continue praying, as we always have,”

she said.

The group reiterated that their movement is driven by genuine concern for the well-being and stability of Rivers State, not financial incentives or political manipulation.