Protests and explosions have erupted in some local government areas of Rivers State, Nigeria, following the resumption of newly sworn-in chairmen appointed by Governor Fubara ¹. The unrest is linked to the Inspector General of Police’s order to unseal the secretariats of the 23 local government areas and withdraw police personnel who had occupied the councils since July.
The situation escalated in Eleme LGA, where the secretariat is currently on fire due to an explosion suspected to be caused by dynamite. Buildings and vehicles have been set ablaze ¹. In Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni LGA, protesters invaded the council headquarters in Omoku, preventing the newly sworn-in chairman from resuming office.
This development is the latest in a series of events that have heightened tensions in Rivers State. The people of Rivers are reportedly tired of oppression and dictatorship, according to a former deputy speaker of the House of Representatives ¹. The crisis has also led to the police unsealing the 23 local government secretariats and withdrawing their personnel.
Key Events:
- Protests and Explosions: Erupt in Rivers State local government areas
- Police Order: Inspector General of Police orders unsealing of secretariats and withdrawal of police personnel
- Eleme LGA Secretariat Fire: Explosion suspected to be caused by dynamite
- Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni LGA Protest: Newly sworn-in chairman prevented from resuming office.
