- Armed police officers were chased away by a large crowd outside the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RISIEC) office early Friday morning
- Governor Similanya Fubara arrives on the scene, accusing the Inspector-General of Police of attempting to disrupt the upcoming local government elections
- Despite the chaos, Fubara assures that the local government elections will proceed as planned on Saturday, October 5
In a dramatic turn of events early Friday morning, armed police officers deployed at the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RISIEC) office were chased away by a large crowd, as tensions mount ahead of the controversial local government elections scheduled for Saturday.
The incident occurred around 1 AM, with reports indicating that it remains unclear who ordered the police presence at the facility.
The police had previously stated they would not participate in the electoral process, raising questions about their deployment. A viral video captured the chaotic scene, showing officers booed and labeled “thieves” as they hurriedly maneuvered their vehicles away from the premises.
According to a statement from Governor Similanya Fubara’s Chief Press Secretary, the governor arrived at the scene after receiving alerts about the police presence.
The statement alleged that the police, led by a Deputy Commissioner of Police (Operations), attempted to breach the RISIEC gates to seize sensitive electoral materials meant for the upcoming election.
Fubara accused the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) of orchestrating this move, suggesting that it was an unwarranted attempt to disrupt the electoral process.
The governor’s team included government officials, lawmakers from both the National Assembly and the Rivers Assembly, and other political stakeholders who rallied to safeguard the commission’s office.
In his condemnation of the police actions, Fubara asserted, “The IGP is taking his friendship with some Abuja-based politicians too far.”
He emphasized that the local government election falls under the jurisdiction of state affairs and urged the IGP to respect the autonomy of the state in conducting its internal matters.
To ensure the safety of the electoral process, the governor’s team has taken measures to secure the RISIEC office, promising that the police would not be allowed to return. Fubara affirmed that the elections would proceed as scheduled on Saturday, despite the earlier tensions.
The situation highlights the ongoing challenges and political maneuvering surrounding the electoral process in Rivers State, as all eyes turn to the upcoming elections.
Nationwide protests: Banks warn workers to remain vigilant, Adegboruwa, Secondus commit to protest
Meanwhile, TheRadar earlier reported that banks and other financial sector employers advised workers to stay vigilant during their duties. This concern was raised on Tuesday, July 30.
The Association of Senior Staff of Banks, Insurance, and Financial Institutions (ASSBIFI) expressed concern over the protest, noting that "a protest without clear leadership is an invitation to chaos.”
