The organisers of the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) empowerment programme in Port Harcourt have firmly denied claims that Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara instigated a walkout by women during the event held in honour of Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu.
In a statement issued by Mrs Tonye Briggs Oniyide, the Rivers State Coordinator of the RHI, the organisers described the accusations from the media office of Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, as false and politically charged.
According to Oniyide, Governor Fubara, although on vacation during the programme, provided full logistical and financial support for the initiative, which was geared towards empowering women and organised under the First Lady’s office.
The walkout occurred during a speech by Mrs Theresa Ibas, wife of the Rivers State Administrator. Women in attendance reportedly objected vocally to her address, insisting they did not recognise her as the First Lady of Rivers State and preferred to be addressed by the wife of Governor Fubara.
The organisers characterised the incident as a spontaneous reaction and stressed that it was neither orchestrated by Governor Fubara nor connected to the RHI. “It is both illogical and misleading to suggest that the governor would sabotage a programme he actively supported,” the statement read.
They further accused political actors of attempting to politicise a non-partisan initiative aimed at promoting women's welfare. “Rivers women are known for their unity and dignity. It is only when external forces seek to impose political agendas that tensions arise,” the statement added.
The RHI organisers called on the public to disregard statements from Wike’s camp and reaffirmed their appreciation to Governor Fubara for his ongoing support for women's empowerment. They concluded by asserting that the event was a success and that all stakeholders and beneficiaries left satisfied.
