The aftermath of Rivers State’s local government elections has descended into violence, leaving a trail of death and destruction in its wake. Ikwerre and Ahoada East Local Government Areas (LGAs) are among the hardest hit, with gruesome videos circulating online showing corpses littering council secretariats, IgbereTV reports.
The crisis erupted when supporters of former Governor Nyesom Wike rejected the newly sworn-in chairmen, sparking clashes between armed groups. The disputed elections, conducted by the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC), have become a flashpoint for violence and unrest.
Eyewitnesses report that the situation began to deteriorate when protesters, allegedly backed by Wike’s loyalists, stormed the council secretariats, demanding the cancellation of the election results. The protests quickly turned violent, with gunfire exchanged between rival groups.
“It was like a war zone,” said an eyewitness from Ikwerre LGA. “People were running for their lives, and the sound of gunfire filled the air. I saw at least five bodies lying on the ground.”
The violence has spread across multiple locations, with reports of gunfire and explosions in several other LGAs. The Rivers State Police Command has struggled to contain the situation, and the withdrawal of security forces from the council secretariats has only exacerbated the chaos.
The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, ordered the withdrawal of security personnel, citing concerns over their safety. However, this move has been widely criticized, with many arguing that it has emboldened the perpetrators of violence.
“We are deeply concerned about the situation in Rivers State,” said a spokesperson for the Nigerian Human Rights Commission. “The withdrawal of security forces has created a power vacuum, allowing armed groups to run amok.”
As the violence continues to escalate, concerns mount over the failure of authorities to contain the crisis. The Rivers State Government has yet to release an official death toll, fueling speculation and anxiety among residents.
The dispute over the election results has also raised questions about the legitimacy of the RSIEC and its ability to conduct free and fair elections. Opposition parties have called for an independent investigation into the violence and the election process.
Meanwhile, residents are bracing themselves for further violence, with many fleeing their homes in fear of their lives. The international community is watching with concern, urging Nigerian authorities to take immediate action to restore order and protect human life.
As the situation in Rivers State continues to deteriorate, one thing is clear: the violence must be brought under control, and those responsible held accountable. The people of Rivers State deserve peace, justice, and democratic governance.
