The Simplicity Movement, a sociopolitical group with a strong presence across Rivers State, has condemned the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, describing it as unconstitutional and an abuse of power.
In a press statement delivered by its National Leader, High Chief Sobomabo Jackrich, the group also rejected the imposition of a state of emergency and called on President Bola Tinubu to reverse the decision in the interest of democracy and constitutional order.
The Simplicity Movement welcomed Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (Rtd.), the newly appointed Sole Administrator of Rivers State, while urging him to remain neutral and uphold his promise to restore peace and order.
However, the group insisted that Rivers State was already peaceful before the emergency declaration, accusing political actors of fabricating a crisis to justify the removal of Fubara.
“The Sole Administrator has seen firsthand that Rivers State is peaceful. The claim that the governor demolished the State Assembly Complex and refused to rebuild it is false. The new complex was already over 80% complete before the emergency rule was imposed,” Jackrich stated.
The group condemned what it described as a smear campaign against Rivers State, alleging that paid bloggers and political figures were falsely spreading reports of violence and instability.
“We urge the public to disregard these fabrications. The real agenda behind the emergency rule is to remove a democratically elected governor at all costs,” the statement said.
It further warned against any plans to extend the emergency rule beyond six months, calling it a ploy to suppress democracy in Rivers State.
The Simplicity Movement also raised concerns over reported explosions at oil and gas installations in the state, calling for a thorough investigation.
“We have credible intelligence that these alleged attacks were staged to justify prolonging the emergency rule. The Sole Administrator must ensure those responsible are exposed and prosecuted,” Jackrich said.
The group also recalled that Fubara had taken proactive security measures, including handing over a surveillance helicopter to the Nigerian Air Force to monitor oil infrastructure.
The group strongly opposed the reported plan to appoint Sole Administrators for local government areas in Rivers State, arguing that such a move would violate Supreme Court rulings.
“Governor Fubara acted lawfully by directing Heads of Local Government Administration to continue managing the councils. Any attempt to override this and impose Sole Administrators will escalate the political crisis,” the statement warned.
The Simplicity Movement called on President Tinubu to restore democracy in Rivers State by reinstating Governor Fubara, his deputy, and members of the House of Assembly.
“Section 305 of the Constitution gives the President the power to declare a state of emergency, but it does not give him the power to suspend an elected governor. This is a clear abuse of power and a dangerous precedent,” the group declared.
It also criticised FCT Minister Nyesom Wike for his role in the political turmoil and called for fairness in handling the crisis.
“We cannot ignore Wike’s involvement while punishing only Governor Fubara. Justice must be served on all sides,” Jackrich insisted.
The group reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Fubara and ensuring that Rivers State is governed according to constitutional principles.
“We are ready to support the Sole Administrator in delivering good governance, but democracy must return as soon as possible. Rivers State cannot be ruled indefinitely outside the Constitution,” the statement concluded.
