Unrest Erupts in Rivers State Following Reopening of Local Government Secretariats
Written by Daniel Abia
Just hours after the Rivers State Police Command announced the reopening of previously sealed local government secretariats, chaos ensued in various areas of the state. Arson, shootings, and fatalities were reported as violence broke out in several locations.
The Eleme Local Government Area secretariat was set ablaze shortly after the new chairman, Brian Gokpa, arrived with councilors and supporters. Witnesses stated that specific buildings were targeted, causing extensive damage and leaving the motive behind the attack ambiguous.
This incident follows the closure of the secretariats in June due to a political dispute between Governor Siminalayi Fubara and former ally, Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike. Despite tensions, local government elections were held on October 5, resulting in the swearing-in of new chairmen.
While the police assured residents of maintaining peace, violence erupted in Khana, Obio/Akpor, Bori, Ikwerre, and Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni among other areas. The ongoing unrest highlights the political divide in Rivers State and raises concerns about further instability as new officials take office.