Rivers turmoil: Politics now playground for children – Aisha Yesufu

 

Human rights activist Aisha Yesufu has decried the worsening political crisis in Rivers State, lamenting that governance in the oil-rich state has been reduced to what she described as “childish politics.”

Yesufu, co-convener of the BringBackOurGirls Movement, made the remarks on Friday in a post on her verified X handle while reacting to the renewed impeachment moves against Governor Siminalayi Fubara by the State House of Assembly.

She said the development was disturbing, noting that the political class appeared more interested in power games than in addressing the suffering of ordinary citizens.

According to her, the lives and welfare of Rivers people have taken the back seat as lawmakers engage in ego battles amid rising cost of living, unemployment, poor infrastructure and insecurity.

“Today’s announcement that the Rivers State House of Assembly is moving again to impeach Governor Siminalayi Fubara is deeply concerning,” she wrote.

“In Rivers State, governance has been reduced to childish politics. Lawmakers have become playthings for political operators.

“While millions of Nigerians suffer under economic hardship, it is worrying that those entrusted with public office in Rivers are more focused on internal political battles than on delivering real governance for the people.”

The activist urged political actors in the state to prioritise the interest of citizens over personal ambition, warning that continued instability would further weaken development.

Rivers State has been enmeshed in political tension following the rift between Governor Fubara and his predecessor, Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, a development that has polarised the House of Assembly and key institutions of government.