A socio-political group, the Simplicity Movement, has raised concerns over recent explosions at oil facilities in Rivers State, alleging they are part of a scheme to justify extending the state of emergency imposed by President Bola Tinubu.
In a statement following a stakeholders’ meeting in Port Harcourt on Monday, the group’s National Leader, Sobomabo Jackrich, described the explosions as politically motivated.
“We believe these incidents are being orchestrated by those who seek to keep Rivers State under unconstitutional control. The people of Rivers State must not be subjected to indefinite military rule under the guise of security concerns,” Jackrich said.
President Tinubu declared a six-month state of emergency in Rivers on March 18, 2025, citing security threats linked to political unrest.
However, the Simplicity Movement argued that the explosions, both before and after the declaration, were staged to justify prolonging the emergency rule.
The group called on the state’s Administrator, Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (Retd.), to launch a thorough investigation into the incidents and ensure that those responsible are held accountable.
The Simplicity Movement also raised alarm over alleged plans to appoint sole administrators for the 23 local government areas instead of conducting the scheduled council elections in August 2025.
“This is an attempt to undermine democracy. The people of Rivers State must be allowed to choose their leaders through a free and fair electoral process,” Jackrich added.
Additionally, the group condemned the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy, and members of the state House of Assembly, calling it an attack on democratic institutions.
“Suspending an elected governor without due process is a dangerous precedent. Any further undemocratic action will only worsen the crisis and deepen divisions in the state,” Jackrich warned.
The Simplicity Movement also insisted that President Tinubu is being unfair to Fubara.
“We welcome the Sole Administrator with the belief that this unconstitutional rule is not permanent. Rivers people cannot be denied their right to elect their leaders,” Jackrich stated.
