The Rivers Women Prayer Group has raised fresh concerns over what they described as the “bleeding” state of Rivers State under the ongoing state of emergency, demanding its immediate termination and the reinstatement of democratic governance.
The women questioned Rivers State’s destiny as other states prepare to celebrate the day and reflect on democratic progress, with members lamenting how the emergency rule has hampered the deployment of resources for genuine development in the state.
This was said in a statement signed by Dr. Vivian Ige-Elenwo and Chikodi Okpara and delivered by renowned Niger Delta campaigner Ann-Kio Briggs on behalf of the group at a prayer demonstration in Port Harcourt, the state capital, on Friday.
The statement reads in part, “We, the Rivers Women Prayer Group, once again reiterate our determination to continue pressing our call for the urgent termination of the state of emergency imposed on our beloved Rivers State, as it has continued to negatively impact our collective development.
“Our demand for the lifting of the state of emergency becomes even more germane as May 29 draws near, and we are asking, what will be the fate of Rivers State? Will our state join other states in marking the day to also take stock, as others?
“Much as we are waiting patiently for Mr President, the father of the nation, to act by terminating this emergency rule, we have continued to observe and bear the burden of the humongous infractions on our collective patrimony by the sole administrator.”
The statement added, “Obviously, our state is bleeding under the emergency rule. That is why we remain resolute and undeterred in appealing for the urgent lifting of this burden of emergency burden.
“The pain we are undergoing due to the level of administrative lacuna under the emergency rule in our state is real. The emergency rule has hindered the deployment of resources for meaningful development.
“Much as Rivers people are the direct losers, women and children are the most affected by the ongoing saga.”
The concerned women further reinforced their commitment to ensuring peace in the state as they called on the National Assembly to engage relevant stakeholders while appreciating Nigerians for their support.
“Mr President, we Rivers women support the process of peace and reconciliation and urge the National Assembly oversight committees on the implementation of the emergency rule to engage with the relevant stakeholders on how to broker peace among the gladiators.
“As determined Rivers women, we deeply appreciate all Nigerians and people of good conscience across the world who have stood by us since this ordeal, especially standing on the side of truth always.
“With your support, we are energised and encouraged to continue with the restoration of the democratic institutions and especially the reinstatement of our beloved governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara,” the statement added.
