In a dramatic display of political tension, supporters of former Rivers State governor and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, staged a significant protest in Port Harcourt on Saturday. The demonstration was fueled by demands for the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) to comply with a recent High Court judgment concerning the ongoing local government elections.
Call for Justice and Compliance
The protest attracted a large crowd, with demonstrators carrying placards emblazoned with messages such as “Obey Court Order” and “No Justice, No Election.” The protesters expressed their frustration over what they deemed irregularities in the electoral process, demanding that the RSIEC halt the elections and adhere to the court’s ruling.
A recent judgment from the Rivers State High Court reportedly ordered the suspension of the elections, citing procedural flaws in the organization and scheduling. This ruling prompted Wike’s camp to call for a postponement of the polls. Despite the court’s decision, RSIEC proceeded with the elections, which ignited protests from Wike’s supporters, who were determined to make their voices heard.
Political Context and Tensions
The ongoing local government election crisis highlights the fierce political rivalry between the camps of Governor Siminalayi Fubara and Minister Nyesom Wike. Both factions are vying for control over the political landscape of Rivers State, leading to heightened tensions within the ruling party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). While the National Working Committee (NWC) of the PDP has encouraged participation in the elections, the Rivers State chapter, loyal to Wike, has urged residents and party members to boycott the exercise.
The conflicting positions within the party reflect a broader struggle for influence in the state’s political structure. Wike’s loyalists have taken to the streets to express their discontent, amplifying the already charged atmosphere.
Security Concerns and Police Response
In a related development, the police cited court orders and stated that they would not provide security services during the elections in Rivers State. This decision has led to accusations of bias from Governor Fubara, who insists that the elections will proceed as planned. Meanwhile, RSIEC has confirmed that it will continue with the electoral exercise, disregarding the court order that had called for a suspension.
Governor Fubara addressed the court judgment being referenced by the protesters, stating, “The Rivers State Government and RSIEC had a judgment that clearly stated: conduct the election with the voters register of 2023; and police, DSS, Nigeria Army, and other sister agencies should provide security.” He expressed confidence in the legality of their position, emphasizing the importance of following the judicial processes established in the state.
Explosion at APC Secretariat
Adding to the tension in the state, reports surfaced of a suspected explosion at the secretariat of the All Progressives Congress (APC), led by factional caretaker committee chairman, Chief Tony Okocha. A video circulating on social media showed significant damage to the main gate and security post of the APC secretariat, with indications that the blast may have originated from dynamite.
In a statement, Chief Okocha accused supporters of Governor Fubara of the attack, asserting that their efforts to set the building ablaze were thwarted by vigilant security personnel on site. “At the wee hours of Saturday, pro-Fubara civilian soldiers detonated dynamites at our office. The second attempt to set it ablaze was foiled,” he reported
The unfolding situation in Rivers State reflects the complex interplay of political rivalries, judicial authority, and civic engagement. As Wike’s supporters continue to protest and call for adherence to the court’s rulings, the tensions between the various factions remain palpable. The state’s political landscape is clearly marked by challenges, with the potential for further escalation if a resolution is not reached. As the situation develops, all eyes will be on how authorities manage the dual crises of electoral integrity and public safety in Rivers State.
