A dynamite explosion in the early hours of Monday, August 12, 2024, rocked the secretariat of the Action People’s Party (APP) located along the GRA axis in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. The incident, which occurred around 1 am, resulted in significant damage to the building, including shattered windows, doors, and other property. The explosion has sparked concerns and speculation within the political landscape of Rivers State, particularly because it comes at a time of political tension and potential realignments.
The blast is widely believed to be politically motivated, especially given the speculation that Governor Siminalayi Fubara may defect from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the APP. This speculation has gained traction due to the alleged power struggle between Governor Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, who is said to have a strong grip on the PDP in the state. The APP has been growing in influence in Rivers State, which may have made it a target for political violence as rival factions vie for control in the volatile political environment.
The party’s leadership, including the National Chairman Uchenna Nnadi, and the Acting State Chairman Sunny Wokekoro, condemned the attack, labeling it as criminal and an affront to the growing democratic processes within the state. They have called for a thorough investigation by law enforcement agencies to bring the perpetrators to justice. Meanwhile, the Rivers State Police Command has deployed officers to the scene and initiated routine operations in the area, although an official statement from the police was still pending at the time of reporting.
This incident has heightened political tensions in the state, with many observers worried about the potential for further violence as the political dynamics in Rivers State continue to evolve. The bombing of the APP secretariat highlights the fragility of political alliances and the lengths to which some actors may go to secure or disrupt political power in the region. The authorities have been urged to take swift action to prevent an escalation of violence and to ensure the safety and security of all political entities operating within the state.
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