Clashes Erupt and Explosions Rock Rivers Councils as Newly-Elected Chairmen Face Opposition

Protests, violence, and explosions disrupt the assumption of duty for newly sworn-in local government chairmen in Rivers State

Violent protests, gunshots, and explosions marked a tense day in Rivers State as the assumption of duty by newly elected local government chairmen was met with fierce resistance. Explosions and protests in Rivers councils disrupted proceedings, with opposition groups taking over council secretariats and blocking access to incoming officials. The unrest has raised serious concerns over the stability of local governance in the state.

In Emohua Local Government Area, for instance, members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) who opposed the recent elections seized control of the council secretariat, further intensifying the protests. Explosions and protests in Rivers councils have left many wondering if peace can be restored amid the chaotic leadership transition.

The violence followed an order from the Inspector-General of Police, which had initially placed security forces at the secretariats to prevent unrest. However, their sudden withdrawal from these critical locations enabled clashes to escalate quickly. Explosions and protests in Rivers councils were not isolated incidents, as other local government areas also witnessed confrontations.

The Eleme Local Government Area secretariat was set ablaze in a dramatic escalation, as arsonists threw explosives that caused vehicles and nearby properties to catch fire. Explosions and protests in Rivers councils also spread to Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni, where protesters stormed the council’s headquarters in Omoku, preventing the newly sworn-in chairman from assuming office.

Governor Siminialayi Fubara had warned about potential violence ahead of time, asking his supporters not to retaliate. Nevertheless, the day was dominated by chaos as explosions and protests in Rivers councils underscored the deep-seated divisions surrounding the election.
As explosions and protests in Rivers councils continue to mar the smooth transition of local government leadership, questions remain about the ability of authorities to restore order. With several council secretariats under siege, the newly sworn-in chairmen face significant challenges ahead.