Analyst Warns Against Attempts to Undermine Democracy in Rivers State

Legal practitioner and public affairs analyst, Justice Osai Ahiakwo, has warned against what he described as renewed attempts to undermine democratic principles in Rivers State as the 2026 political year begins.

In a statement issued in Calabar on Friday, Ahiakwo said the resurgence of political tension in the state reflects the waning influence of godfatherism, intimidation and elite-driven propaganda.

He expressed concern that Rivers politics is again being drawn into what he termed “murky waters” at a time the state should be consolidating democratic gains, noting that such moves expose desperation to preserve outdated power structures rather than respect the will of the people.

According to him, recent verbal attacks and political manoeuvres against the administration of Governor Siminalayi Fubara were predictable and represent calculated efforts to frustrate the governor’s constitutional right to seek a second term.

Ahiakwo said Rivers State has entered a new political era characterised by a more enlightened and politically conscious electorate, stressing that citizens are no longer passive observers but informed participants who understand their rights and the power of the ballot.

He identified attempts to impose a so-called “gentleman agreement” as central to the controversy, describing it as a direct assault on the state’s political development and a threat to democratic growth.

The analyst emphasised that such agreements have no legal standing, noting that they are neither binding nor enforceable under Nigerian law.

He warned that elevating informal arrangements above constitutional provisions is unlawful and unacceptable in a democracy.

Ahiakwo argued that denying a sitting governor the right to recontest violates the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which guarantees every qualified Nigerian the freedom to participate in politics and contest elective office.

He added that rejecting imposed political arrangements should not be viewed as rebellion but as a rejection of political servitude and a signal that no group is entitled to monopolise power.

As the 2027 general elections approach, Ahiakwo said Rivers people are increasingly prepared to assert their constitutional rights, insisting that democracy must prevail and the will of the people remain supreme.