Protests broke out in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, on Monday morning as members of the ‘Take It Back Movement’ gathered at Isaac Boro Park to demand the reinstatement of Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
The demonstrators, who had previously informed the police about their intention to protest in a letter dated April 3, 2025, called for an end to the current state administration, which they claimed was unconstitutional.
As the protesters gathered around 9 a.m., they were met by a heavy police presence with tensions escalating between the protesters and officers that are warning the demonstrators not to proceed with their rally.
“Nobody can tell us where not to gather, we are Rivers people,” one protester responded, insisting that their right to peaceful assembly was protected.
Despite the police’s warnings, the protesters continued with their demonstration, which quickly turned confrontational.
The police responded by firing teargas at the crowd, causing chaos as officers chased the protesters through the park.
Several demonstrators, including journalists covering the event, were reportedly beaten by the police during the incident.
The protest was centered on two main demands: the repeal of the controversial Cybercrime Act and the reinstatement of Governor Fubara.
One of the protesters, speaking to reporters, said, “We have no government. This administration is foreign to our people.
We demand our governor returns to office and leads us. We have a contract with him, not with an unelected administrator.”
The demonstration in Port Harcourt is part of a growing wave of protests across Nigeria, with similar rallies taking place in Lagos, Oyo, and other states.
Protesters are voicing concerns over the government’s failure to meet the needs of the people, with calls for better governance and accountability becoming louder.
Earlier in the week, the Nigerian Police Force had urged organizers to cancel the nationwide protest, citing its timing during the National Police Day celebrations.
The police condemned the protests, labeling them “ill-timed” and warning that they could harm the country’s image.
Despite the pushback from the authorities, the ‘Take It Back Movement’ has vowed to continue its campaign for good governance and political accountability.
The protests reflect growing dissatisfaction with the current political climate in Nigeria, with citizens increasingly calling for a return to democratic principles and leadership.
As the protests continue to unfold, the response from both the government and the police will be crucial in shaping the direction of the movement.
The situation in Rivers State is likely to remain tense as the demand for Governor Fubara’s return gains momentum across the country.
