A recent political stir in Rivers State has sparked debates after women under the Rivers Professional Women League (RPWL) walked out during an empowerment program attended by a representative of Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu. The incident, which occurred in Port Harcourt on May 2, 2025, has drawn sharp reactions from FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, who labeled the action “embarrassing.” Here’s what you need to know.
What Happened at the Empowerment Program?
The event, part of the First Lady’s Renewed Hope Initiative, was intended to empower women in Rivers State. However, tensions arose when Theresa Ibas, wife of the Rivers State Sole Administrator, arrived to represent Senator Tinubu. Attendees, expecting Hajiya Fatima Abbas Tajudeen (wife of the House of Representatives Speaker), staged a walkout, citing miscommunication about the event’s representation.
RPWL’s Response: “No Intent to Disrespect the First Lady”
In a joint statement, the Rivers Professional Women League clarified that the walkout was not directed at the First Lady or President Bola Tinubu. They emphasized their “high esteem” for Senator Tinubu and blamed the incident on logistical confusion:
“Rivers women were misinformed about the representative attending. We mobilized expecting Hajiya Fatima Abbas, not Mrs. Ibas. This disconnect caused frustration, not disrespect.”
The group criticized Wike for framing the incident as an insult to the presidency, calling his narrative a “spin” to advance personal agendas.
Wike’s Criticism and Political Tensions
Minister Wike condemned the walkout as “disturbing,” suggesting it undermined the First Lady’s office. However, RPWL accused him of exploiting the situation to fuel political division, stating:
“Chief Wike believes he’s the sole supporter of the President. This blackmail must stop. Rivers people remain peaceful but won’t tolerate manipulation.”
The statement also distanced Governor Siminalayi Fubara from the incident, noting his commitment to reconciliation amid ongoing political friction in the state.
Rivers Women Reaffirm Support for Tinubu’s Leadership
Despite the controversy, RPWL reiterated its backing for President Tinubu’s administration and the Renewed Hope Initiative:
“We respect Mr. President and Senator Tinubu’s visionary programs. Our actions reflect frustration with local misrepresentation, not federal leadership.”
Why This Matters
The walkout highlights deeper political tensions in Rivers State, where loyalty to national leaders often intersects with local grievances. As Governor Fubara navigates reconciliation efforts, the incident underscores the challenge of balancing peace with public sentiment.
Conclusion: Time Will Tell
The RPWL urged stakeholders to avoid sensationalizing the event, emphasizing that political positions are transient. For now, Rivers women seek clarity in representation while maintaining support for Tinubu’s presidency. As the group stated: “Time will reveal the truth—and those on the right side of history.”
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