Violent clashes and gunfire have marred the transition of power in several local government areas (LGAs) of Rivers State, following the recent inauguration of new chairmen by Governor Siminalayi Fubara. The turmoil has hindered the newly sworn-in officials from assuming their duties, casting a shadow over the democratic process and heightening political unrest.
Tensions flared across multiple councils as protesters opposed to the election results clashed with supporters of the newly elected chairmen. In Emohua LGA, members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) who opposed the outcome of the elections reportedly seized control of the council, sparking violent confrontations.
The unrest escalated following the withdrawal of police personnel earlier this week, as directed by Nigeria’s Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun. The police had initially sealed the council secretariats to prevent unrest, but their absence has now left the areas vulnerable to attacks.
In Eleme LGA, arsonists targeted the council secretariat, hurling explosives that set the building ablaze. Reports indicate that vehicles and other properties were destroyed as the fire rapidly spread, leaving the secretariat in ruins.
In Omoku, the headquarters of Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni LGA, protesters stormed the secretariat, blocking the newly sworn-in chairman from assuming office. This further intensified the volatile situation in the area, with both sides of the political divide digging in.
Sources close to the developments revealed that political factions loyal to former Governor and current FCT Minister Nyesom Wike had reportedly mobilized youths to prevent Governor Fubara’s group from accessing the council secretariats. According to reports, Wike’s political faction allegedly paid 20 youths from each ward N15,000 each to block entrances and prevent the new chairmen from taking charge.
“There is the possibility of a crisis in Rivers State on Monday,” a source told SaharaReporters. “Fubara is swearing in the chairmen of local government councils elected at the weekend, but the Wike group has mobilized youths to block the secretariats.”
As the situation grows more tense, concerns are rising over the potential for further violence. Residents and stakeholders have called for calm, while law enforcement authorities continue to monitor the developments. The crisis has raised serious questions about the stability of the local government system in Rivers State and the broader implications for the state’s political landscape.
