PORT HARCOURT — Chaos erupted in Rivers State on Monday as armed thugs launched violent attacks on local government council secretariats, resulting in the deaths of at least five individuals and widespread panic across the affected communities.
The violence unfolded shortly after the newly sworn-in chairmen of several local government areas (LGAs) attempted to assume their offices, only to be confronted by a hostile crowd of youths opposed to their elections.
The situation quickly escalated, leading to gunfire at multiple locations, including Khana, Oyibo, and Ahoada-East LGAs, where the casualties were reported.
Eyewitnesses recounted a scene of chaos, with thugs storming the council secretariats and firing indiscriminately. “It was terrifying. We were just trying to go about our business when we heard the gunshots,” said one resident who wished to remain anonymous. “I saw one person fall in Khana LGA, and later learned that three others were killed in Oyibo.”
The violence did not stop at gunfire; it was also reported that four LG secretariats were set ablaze amid the turmoil, compounding the fear gripping local residents.
Communities adjacent to the impacted areas are now on high alert, with many expressing deep concern over the rising tide of insecurity in the region.
In response to the escalating violence, President Bola Tinubu has called on the police to step up their efforts in providing security for local government officials, urging law enforcement agencies to restore and maintain peace and order immediately.
The president emphasized the importance of ensuring the safety of public institutions amid the unrest. However, the police in Rivers State have yet to release an official statement regarding the attacks.
The Force Public Relations Officer (FPRO), Muyiwa Adejobi, indicated that the police would refrain from engaging in a media confrontation with the state governor, Siminalayi Fubara, regarding the ongoing political crisis.
The unrest reflects broader issues within Rivers State, where political tensions and rivalries have often manifested in violence. The recent attacks have drawn attention to the need for a comprehensive security strategy to safeguard local governance and public order.
Residents and local stakeholders are now calling for immediate action from the authorities to quell the violence and restore calm. “We want peace. This is not the way to resolve political differences,” a community leader lamented, urging all parties involved to seek dialogue instead of resorting to violence.
As the situation continues to develop, the people of Rivers State remain hopeful that the intervention of law enforcement agencies will bring an end to the violence and restore stability to their communities.
The eyes of the nation are now on Rivers State as citizens demand accountability and justice for the lives lost amid this troubling chapter of unrest.
