Rivers APC Condemns Wike’s Ban On Public Rallies, Protests

All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State has condemned the ban placed by Governor Nyesom Wike on public rallies and protests in the state.

In a statement on Friday by the party’s state spokesperson, Chris Finebone, APC said it considered the ban as the height of absurdity as Nigerians had legal right to peaceful protest.

“Wike should be reminded that Honourable Retired Justice Adekeye J.S.C. once stated that, ‘A rally or placard carrying demonstration has become a form of expression of views on current issues affecting government and the governed’.

“It is a trend recognised and deeply entrenched in the system of governance in civilised countries.

“We must borrow a leaf from those who have trekked the rugged path of democracy and are now reaping the dividend of their experience,” it said.

The APC added that pensioners, civil servants in the state might soon protest their alleged abandonment and suffering.

“The governor is simply acting like someone with a weak and incoherent argument against the more coherent, sensible and logical argument of the opponent.

“Another reason for the ineffectual ban is to scuttle further exposure of the ills and atrocities of the state government that have punished civil servants.

“It is necessary at this point to inform Gov. Wike that his ban on protest is simply waste of time and space.

“Nigeria police cannot enforce an illegal ban except the governor intends to deploy his usual gun-toting hoodlums,” the party said.