A gathering intended to promote unity and empowerment under the Renewed Hope Initiative, a program spearheaded by Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Remi Tinubu, took a dramatic turn as women from Rivers State openly rejected the presence of Mrs. Ibas, labeling her a “stranger’s wife” and declaring that only one First Lady represents the state.  

The event, held in Port Harcourt on Friday was designed to bolster grassroots support for President Bola Tinubu’s administration. However, tensions flared when attendees voiced their refusal to recognize Mrs. Ibas—allegedly linked to the camp of former Governor Nyesom Wike—as a legitimate representative of Rivers State. Chants of “One Governor at a time, one First Lady at a time!” echoed through the venue, with participants insisting their loyalty lies solely with Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his wife, Lady Valerie Fubara.  

“We Came for Tinubu and Fubara, Not Imposters”

A spokesperson for the women articulated their stance: “A stranger’s wife cannot address us as the First Lady of Rivers State. We came here to support the President’s wife, Senator Remi Tinubu, and our own Lady Valerie Fubara. Rivers women know their leaders.” The remarks underscored deepening political divisions in the state, where Governor Fubara has faced relentless pressure from a faction of the state assembly loyal to Wike, now the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister.  

The reference to Mrs. Ibas, widely believed to be aligned with Wike’s political circle, highlights the ongoing power struggle. Critics argue that Wike’s allies are attempting to undermine Fubara’s administration, sparking protests like the #BringBackFubara campaign, which demands an end to alleged interference in governance..