Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide has called on President Bola Tinubu to restore constitutional order in Rivers State by reinstating Governor Siminalayi Fubara and all duly elected members of the Rivers State House of Assembly on or before June 12th, 2025.
TheHintsNews reports that Tinubu had declared a state of emergency in Rivers state following the protracted political crisis in the state between the Minister of Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike and Fubara.
However, the President of the council, Dr. Theophilus Alaye in a statement issued Tuesday said Fubara was elected by the people of Rivers State through a transparent and democratic process.
He stressed that any disruption to that mandate undermines not just the will of the Rivers people, but the very foundation upon which democracy stands.
Alaye pointed out that the restoration of Fubara and the Assembly members would reaffirm Nigeria’s commitment to the rule of law and heal the wounds of division that have emerged in recent times.
He noted that the sidelining of elected lawmakers erodes public trust in governance and sets a dangerous precedent that Nigeria cannot afford.
Alaye added: “As we approach June 12th—Nigeria’s Democracy Day—the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide extends a solemn reminder of what this date represents: the triumph of the people’s will, the sanctity of the ballot, and the resilience of our democratic journey.
“June 12 is not just a date—it is a symbol. We therefore call on President Tinubu, as a foremost beneficiary and icon of Nigeria’s democratic evolution, to seize this moment and fulfill his promise.
“It is in this spirit that we acknowledge President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s reported commitment to restoring constitutional order in Rivers State by reinstating Governor Siminalayi Fubara and all duly elected members of the Rivers State House of Assembly on or before June 12th, 2025.
“This promise must not be taken lightly, nor should it be seen as a mere political concession—it is a necessary act of justice and statesmanship.
“Governor Sim Fubara was elected by the people of Rivers State through a transparent and democratic process.
“Any disruption to that mandate undermines not just the will of the Rivers people, but the very foundation upon which our democracy stands.
“Similarly, the sidelining of elected lawmakers erodes public trust in governance and sets a dangerous precedent that Nigeria cannot afford.”
Alaye said Ijaw people—known for their commitment to peace, equity, and justice—have watched developments in Rivers State with patience and hope.
He noted that their patience was not indifference, and their silence was not weakness, adding that they believe in dialogue, and also stand ready to defend the democratic rights of our people if compelled to.
Alaye stressed that this Democracy Day would be remembered not just as a celebration, but as a turning point and a moment when justice was served, peace was restored, and democracy prevailed.