In a bold reply to Minister Nyesom Wike, the Rivers Professional Women League defended their controversial walkout. They left an event featuring First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, sparking backlash and sharp comments from the FCT Minister.
Wike called the action “disturbing and embarrassing” in a public statement on May 2. However, the women rejected his claims, insisting their actions were both organic and misunderstood.
According to them, they were informed that the First Lady would be represented by Fatima Abass. They said they only discovered later that another person—Mrs. Theresa Ibas—was sent instead.
Wike Accused of Spinning the Narrative
Immediately, Wike accused the women of staging the incident to embarrass the Tinubus and disrupt peace. He claimed they insulted both the President and his wife under the guise of seeking reconciliation.
In his words: “They say they want peace but do things that clearly contradict that.”
He called it a “show of shame” and apologized on behalf of Rivers citizens.
Responding fast, the RPWL accused Wike of twisting the facts for political advantage.
They argued Wike’s statement ignored the peaceful intentions behind their actions. They said Wike has spent more time politicking in Rivers than focusing on Abuja duties.
“Using Rivers people’s peace-loving nature as a weapon against them is unfair and dangerous.”
Rivers Women Insist Walkout Was Not Against First Lady
Furthermore, the women clarified that no walkout was ever directed at Senator Oluremi Tinubu herself.
They said they respected her office and the President and blamed poor communication for the misunderstanding.
They explained they were mobilized under the impression Fatima Abass would attend.
When they saw Mrs. Ibas instead, they felt misled and disappointed.
They emphasized that no directive came from Governor Siminalayi Fubara regarding their actions.
“The women acted on their own,” they said. “We are not political pawns.”
They urged the public to stop linking every civic reaction to the governor’s office. They pointed to similar events in Delta State that didn’t provoke such attacks.
According to them, Delta Nursing students protested before the First Lady with no backlash.
“No one blamed the Delta governor for it,” they added.
They asked: “Why is it always different when Wike is involved?”
Still, they reaffirmed their admiration for Senator Tinubu and her Renewed Hope Initiative.
They said Rivers women back her programs and view her with deep respect. However, they believe Wike exaggerates his loyalty to the Tinubu administration.
“Wike acts like the President depends on him to breathe,” they stated.
They warned that political power is temporary and all actors will soon fade.
“Some will go down as heroes; others, not so much,” they concluded.
Finally, they called for peace, honesty, and an end to manipulation of their intentions.
