The deepening political crisis in Rivers State took a violent turn as a security guard at the Action People’s Party (APP) secretariat was shot during an armed attack. The incident was disclosed by Hon. Ikenga Imo Ugochinyere, Spokesman of the Opposition Coalition and Member of the National Assembly.
This attack comes amidst growing tensions between Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike, over control of state resources. Reports suggest that Governor Fubara plans to join the APP, as Wike allegedly maintains firm control over the structure of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in the state. Fubara’s supporters are also reportedly considering joining the APP ahead of upcoming local council elections.
In a statement titled “STOP THIS DEMOCRACY BY BOMBS AND GUNS”, Ugochinyere condemned the violent assault on the APP secretariat, revealing that the attack left the party’s head of security critically injured.
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“Late last night, I received a distress call from the National Chairman of APP. Their Rivers State secretariat was under heavy gunfire, with the head of security shot. Thankfully, the bullet pierced his buttocks, and though alive, he remains in critical condition at the hospital,” Ugochinyere wrote.
This latest incident follows a bomb attack on the same party office just weeks ago, which partially damaged the building. Despite the recent renovation, armed gunmen opened fire on the office, reportedly intent on killing those inside.
Ugochinyere drew parallels between this attack and a previous violent protest by pro-Wike supporters, during which a bomb detonated, injuring the carrier. “The police have yet to hold accountable the sponsors of these daylight killers, who believe the only way to regain political power is through violence,” he remarked.
He warned that no amount of intimidation would deter the opposition from defending democracy in Rivers State, emphasizing that the governor’s removal would not be achieved through violent means.
Calling on President Bola Tinubu to intervene, Ugochinyere urged him to act swiftly to prevent further escalation. He likened the current situation to the political crises of the 1960s and 1980s when desperation led to widespread violence and chaos.
“This is the time for President Tinubu to save democracy and stop these agents of darkness from worsening the situation in Rivers State,” Ugochinyere concluded.
