Violence Erupts Across Rivers State as Police Withdraw from Council Secretariats

Violence has broken out in at least five local government councils just hours after the police announced their withdrawal from council secretariats across the state. Early reports indicate that the Eleme Local Government Council secretariat was set ablaze this morning.

According to eyewitnesses, the newly elected chairman of Eleme, Brian Gokpa, arrived at the secretariat with his councilors and supporters, only to discover several buildings engulfed in flames. The cause of the fire remains unclear.

Meanwhile, in Ikwerre Local Government Area, videos circulating online show the front section of the secretariat also on fire. Earlier in the day, sporadic gunfire was heard in the area following the police’s withdrawal. Tensions continue to rise as protesters from the opposition block newly sworn-in council chairmen and councilors from entering their offices. Similar unrest has been reported in Ahoada East and ONELGA (Ogba–Egbema–Ndoni Local Government Area) as protesters at these locations are preventing the newly elected officials from assuming office.

The police had earlier announced their withdrawal from council secretariats following a directive from the Inspector General, Kayode Egbetokun. The withdrawal appears to have escalated tensions in several areas, leading to the current wave of violence. The situation remains fluid, with further reports of unrest expected as the day progresses. The police have yet to issue official statements on the incidents.