Nigerians in U.S. to Protest at White House Over Rivers State Emergency Rule

A group of Nigerians in the diaspora has announced plans to stage a protest at the White House in response to the recent declaration of a State of Emergency in Rivers State. The move follows the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and other elected officials by President Bola Tinubu, a decision that has sparked widespread controversy.

Under the banner of the Democratic Movement (DM), the protesters aim to voice their opposition to what they describe as an unconstitutional intervention in Rivers State’s governance. The demonstration seeks to draw international attention to the matter, urging global leaders to intervene and call for the immediate restoration of democratic governance in the state.

Cosmos Achief, the president of the DM, emphasized the group's commitment to defending democracy. “We cannot remain silent while an elected governor is removed, an entire legislature is suspended, and an unelected administrator is installed. These actions set a dangerous precedent that threatens Nigeria’s democracy,” he stated.

The protest is expected to attract support from Nigerians in the diaspora, civil rights activists, and democracy advocates. The organizers are also calling on U.S. President Donald Trump and international bodies to engage Nigerian authorities in ensuring a swift return to constitutional order in Rivers State.

This planned demonstration underscores growing concerns within the Nigerian diaspora about political developments back home, as well as fears of an erosion of democratic values in the country