The Rivers Professional Women League (RPWL) has strongly responded to recent remarks made by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, regarding a walkout by women at a presidential empowerment programme in Port Harcourt.
According to the RPWL, Wike’s claims that Rivers women embarrassed the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, are misleading and intentionally manipulative.
The incident in question occurred on Friday, May 2, 2025, during the Renewed Hope Initiative women’s empowerment programme—an event spearheaded by the First Lady. Attendees, expecting to be addressed by the wife of the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hajiya Fatima Abbas Tajudeen, were surprised when Mrs. Theresa Ibas, wife of the sole administrator, arrived to represent the First Lady instead. This unexpected change prompted many women to exit the venue in protest.
RPWL Clarifies the Incident
In a detailed press statement jointly signed by Nimi Fiberesima, Esq. (President), Jennifer Boms Wolugbom (Secretary), and Tambari Menete (Director of Publicity), the RPWL clarified the circumstances surrounding the walkout, stressing that the women acted independently based on misinformation—not out of disrespect for the First Lady.
“We were clearly misinformed that the First Lady would be represented by the wife of the Speaker. On that understanding, we mobilized in high numbers and were excited to welcome her. It was disappointing and improper that Mrs. Theresa Ibas showed up instead,” the statement noted.
Rivers Women Denounce Wike’s Allegations
The women further accused Nyesom Wike of exploiting the situation to push a false narrative for political gain.
“Chief Wike is once again trying to spin the truth to serve his personal agenda,” they asserted. “It is unfair to weaponize the peaceful nature of Rivers people for political blackmail.”
They emphasized that Governor Siminalayi Fubara had no involvement in the incident and did not instruct any group of women to stage the walkout. The RPWL described its members as organic supporters of peace, dignity, and fair representation, who simply felt misled and undervalued during the event.
Reaffirming Loyalty to the Presidency
The group expressed unwavering respect and support for President Bola Tinubu and Senator Oluremi Tinubu, stressing that the Rivers women could never intentionally disrespect Nigeria’s First Family.
“We hold the First Lady in the highest regard. Our actions were never aimed at undermining her or President Tinubu,” they said.
They accused Wike of acting as if he alone holds exclusive rights to support the President, describing his conduct as “being more Catholic than the Pope.”
A Call for Maturity in Political Discourse
Concluding their statement, the RPWL urged political figures to exercise restraint and avoid fanning the flames of discord, especially at a time when national unity and peaceful coexistence are vital.
“Positions are temporary. History will judge each actor—some positively, others not. It is time we embraced truth, maturity, and reconciliation.”
Conclusion
This latest development reflects growing tension in Rivers State’s political space, where interpretations of loyalty and representation are increasingly becoming points of conflict. The RPWL’s statement not only seeks to clear the air but also highlights the broader need for transparent communication and respectful political engagement.
