BREAKING: Crisis, Violence Rock Rivers As Elected Chairmen Attempt To Resume Office
Violent clashes and gunfire have disrupted the transition of power in several local government areas (LGAs) of Rivers State, following the inauguration of new chairmen by Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
This turmoil has hindered the newly sworn-in officials from assuming their duties, casting a shadow over the democratic process.
Tensions escalated across various councils, with protesters opposed to the recent elections clashing with supporters.
Meanwhile, in Emohua LGA, members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) against the election results reportedly took control of the council, leading to violent confrontations.
The violence followed the withdrawal of police personnel by the Inspector-General of Police on Monday. The police had initially sealed the council secretariats to prevent unrest.
In Eleme LGA, arsonists attacked the council secretariat, throwing explosives that ignited a massive fire.
It was gathered that vehicles and other properties were destroyed as the flames engulfed the area.
However, in Omoku, the headquarters of Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni LGA, protesters stormed the secretariat, preventing the newly sworn-in chairman from assuming office, further intensifying the tension in the area.
Sources on Sunday said that Nyesom Wike’s political faction in the state had reportedly mobilised 20 youths from each ward, offering them N15,000 each, to block council secretariats and prevent Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s group from accessing them.
“There is the possibility of a crisis in Rivers State on Monday. Fubara is swearing in the chairmen of local government councils elected at the weekend to resume work on Monday.
“Meanwhile, the Wike group is mobilising 20 youths paid N15,000 each from each ward to block the various council secretariats to prevent the Fubara group from entering,” one of the sources said.
