No Protest in Rivers State —Suspended Commissioner Chisom Gbali Dispels Rumours, Calls for Calm Amid Political Tensions

Amid swirling rumours of planned protests in Port Harcourt, suspended Rivers State Commissioner for Youth Development, Chisom Gbali, has firmly denied any such unrest, reaffirming the state's stability and calling on citizens to remain calm and united.

As political tensions simmer in Rivers State, Chisom Gbali, the suspended Commissioner for Youth Development, has moved to quash widespread rumours of planned protests in Port Harcourt on Monday, April 7, 2025.

Speaking in an interview, Gbali described the reports as false and misleading, stressing that Rivers remains peaceful and stable despite the ongoing political uncertainty. He highlighted the calm in the state as a testament to the people’s resolve to choose unity and progress over chaos.

“There is no protest in Rivers State,” Gbali emphasized. “If there was any such activity, I would know. All youth groups in the state are under my coordination. I would have first-hand information.”

Gbali further maintained that the Rivers youth remain aligned with Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s leadership, dismissing claims that the political crisis has sparked unrest. He underscored the fact that government projects continue across the state, and the administrative machinery has not come to a halt, even in the wake of his suspension.

“Though I’m not physically in the office due to the suspension, the Ministry of Youth Development continues to function. Our directors and staff are running operations effectively. I receive regular briefings.”

Turning his focus to the broader governance issues, Gbali took aim at the controversial appointment of a sole administrator, who is currently overseeing the state's affairs following emergency measures introduced by President Bola Tinubu.

He condemned the administrator’s alleged moves to cancel projects and present new budgets, arguing that such actions are **unconstitutional and undermine the democratic structure.

“It is illegal for a sole administrator to take over functions such as presenting a budget or terminating awarded contracts. This is not governance—it’s a calculated attempt to derail the will of the people,” he said.

Gbali also cautioned against reported plans to extend the tenure of the sole administrator, warning that such a decision could further destabilize the state and derail governance.

Despite his suspension, Gbali’s message was one of hope and resilience, urging Rivers residents to **remain vigilant, peaceful, and focused on democratic values.

“Let us not fall into fear or misinformation. Rivers State is strong. The people are watching. We must not allow political games to steal our future.”

As political uncertainty unfolds in Rivers, Gbali’s voice adds to the growing concern over democratic governance. While rejecting reports of unrest, he calls for transparency, constitutionality, and continued support for democratic institutions.