Comedian Mark Angel urges Rivers State residents to avoid protests after President Tinubu declared a State of Emergency and suspended Governor Fubara.
In a national broadcast on Tuesday, President Tinubu announced the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his deputy, Ngozi Odu. He also dissolved the state’s House of Assembly. To oversee the state’s affairs, he appointed Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (Rtd) as the administrator for the next six months.
The decision has sparked tension across the state, with reports of planned protests in response to the government’s action. However, Mark Angel, in a video posted on his Instagram page, cautioned residents against taking to the streets. He described the political crisis as a dispute between the state and federal governments, insisting that ordinary citizens should not get involved.
“It’s Not Your Fight,” Says Mark Angel
Addressing the people of Rivers, Angel emphasized that the ongoing political battle does not concern the public. He urged youths, in particular, to resist any calls to protest, stressing that the matter is between politicians and should not affect daily life.
“My fellow Rivers people, this issue in our state is not your business. It’s a fight between the government and the government,” he said.
According to him, the conflict stems from a broken political agreement between leaders. He suggested that since politicians have the power to make and change decisions, they should handle their problems themselves.
“Let Them Settle Their Issues”
Angel also reminded residents that his comedy skits had previously predicted such political chaos, though many dismissed them as mere jokes. Now, he said, reality has caught up with them.
“We saw this coming. We talked about it in our skits, but they thought it was a joke. Now, it’s happening. Let them fight their fight,” he stated.
The comedian downplayed concerns about military rule, saying that as long as residents can carry on with their daily activities peacefully, they should not be bothered about who is in power.
“Even if they want the military to rule for ten years, it’s fine. As long as we can go about our businesses peacefully,” he said.
“Don’t Be Used for Protests”
Mark Angel also warned against political manipulation. He questioned the motives of those calling for protests and reminded the people of how Governor Fubara came into power.
“We all know how he got into office. Now, they are sending messages for us to protest on his behalf? Let them settle their issues. Don’t get involved,” he cautioned.
He further urged the people not to fall for slogans or campaigns urging them to resist the government’s decision.
“Don’t allow anyone to convince you to protest. There’s nothing like ‘We no go gree.’ That’s a lie. We agree. They know what they did to gain power, and they know what they need to do to keep it. Let them sort themselves out,” he said.
“Let Security Forces Do Their Job”
Angel also supported the presence of security forces in the state. He suggested that their deployment would help maintain peace and stability.
“The military should secure everywhere. Don’t follow anyone to protest,” he advised.
His comments have sparked mixed reactions online, with some agreeing with his stance while others believe citizens should have a say in the political affairs of their state.
For now, tensions remain high in Rivers State as residents await further developments following the federal government’s decision.
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