The Secretary-General of the Ijaw Youth Council (IYC) Worldwide and Director-General of the Rivers First Movement, Maobuye Obu, has described Rivers State as being in a state of crisis, insisting that the current administration has failed the people.
Speaking during an event in Port Harcourt focused on “Activism: The Pathway to Pan-Africanism in Nigeria,” Obu said the governor should not be portrayed as a victim in the state’s political crisis.
“Rivers State is in a mess. We have a failed government. The current government of Rivers State has failed. Forget about what you see. Don’t have pity for the governor of Rivers State because he is someone who entered into all the agreements. He agreed to everything and is now trying to play the victim. No, he is not a victim,” he said.
Speaking on the role of activism in reviving Pan-Africanism in Nigeria, Obu said many people misunderstand the true meaning of activism.
“Oftentimes, people misconstrue what activism is all about. They think activism is about public disturbance or displays that are not in tune with societal expectations, but that is not true,” he said.
According to him, activism is about compelling people to do what is right through lawful actions, established principles, and collective efforts.
“For me, activism is about forcing people to do the right thing through actions, laid-down principles, and by forming coalitions of individuals and groups who come together to pursue causes that positively affect humanity and bring about the changes society desires,” he stated.
Obu stressed that activism remains critical in promoting accountability and effective governance in Nigeria.
Looking ahead to the 2027 general elections, Obu urged Nigerians, particularly young people, to resist oppression, defend human rights, and actively participate in shaping the country’s future.
“We should fight against anything that suppresses humanity or violates human rights. The 2027 elections will determine whether Nigeria moves forward or continues on the wrong path,” he said.
