Despite police warnings against protests, a coordinated protest was held on Monday across various local government areas in Rivers State by former chairmen from 21 out of the 23 LGAs.
According to Persecondnews, the expiration of the three-year tenure of former council chairmen sparked a crisis that led to the police seizing control of the secretariats of all 23 LGAs in Rivers State on Tuesday, tragically resulting in the loss of three lives.
The former chairmen, who are supporters of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr. Nyesom Wike, held protests in their various council areas, showing their loyalty to him.
In Buguma, the capital of Asari-Toru LGA, former Chairman Onengiyeofori George led a procession of supporters through the town’s streets, dancing and singing solidarity songs in support of the FCT minister, showcasing their loyalty and enthusiasm.
They waved placards with inscriptions asking the police to continue occupying the council headquarters.
Some of the inscriptions read, “Sim Fubara Can’t Continue to Act As He Likes” and “There’s No Vacancy in Asari-Toru Council.”
The protest in Asari-Toru LGA took a dangerous turn when a group of men, allegedly members of Asari Dokubo’s private security outfit, known as the Amama soldiers, attempted to assault the demonstrators, sparking tensions and nearly escalating into violence.
Reports state that prompt intervention by alert policemen successfully restrained the Amama soldiers, defusing the potentially explosive situation and averting a physical confrontation.
The protesters subsequently submitted a formal complaint letter to the authorities.
Meanwhile, in Abonnema, the seat of Akuku-Toru LGA, a separate group of demonstrators gathered to express support for the ongoing police closure of the council premises.
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