Popular comedian Mark Angel has advised Rivers State residents, particularly youths, to steer clear of protests over the State of Emergency declared by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. He described the unfolding crisis as a power struggle between political figures that should not concern the general public.
The Federal Government’s decision, announced on March 18, 2025, saw the suspension of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, his deputy Ngozi Odu, and all elected members of the State House of Assembly. In their place, Vice Admiral Ibokette Ibas (Rtd) was appointed as the state’s administrator for the next six months.
Reacting via an Instagram video, Mark Angel urged Rivers residents not to get involved, stating that the crisis is a “government vs government” issue and not a people’s fight.
“This matter is not your business. It’s a personal beef between those in power. They know how they got into office, and they know what they need to do to stay there. Let them settle their differences. Don’t let anyone drag you into protests. Even if they put the military in charge for 10 years, as long as we can go about our businesses peacefully, it’s fine,” he said.
The comedian emphasized that residents should avoid being used as political tools, warning against street demonstrations that could lead to violence or crackdown by security forces.
His statement has sparked widespread debate, with some Nigerians agreeing that the public should remain neutral, while others argue that silence could set a dangerous precedent for democracy.
