By Tina Amanda
Post-election violence has erupted in parts of Rivers State, sending shockwaves through the region and leaving residents in fear, with many staying indoors due to concerns about safety.
In the early hours of today, Ikwerre Local Government Council was set ablaze following violent clashes. Similarly, in Eleme Local Government Area, the council secretariat was engulfed in flames, allegedly set by unidentified youths. The fire has caused significant damage, raising alarm among Eleme stakeholders, who are now calling for a thorough investigation into the cause of the destruction.
In Emuoha LGA, tension remains high after a group of unidentified youths reportedly attacked the council premises on Sunday. According to eyewitness accounts, explosives, allegedly planted by the group, were detonated just as the new council chairman arrived for work.
The chairman revealed that concerned farmers had alerted local authorities about suspicious activity the previous night, but no action was taken by the police, despite the warnings.
Further reports from Abua/Odual LGA indicate that members of the PDP-Wike faction were seen protesting near the council secretariat, which shares a boundary with the local PDP office. Meanwhile, the newly elected chairman of Abua/Odual has proceeded with the swearing-in of his councilors amidst the unrest.
In another troubling development, sporadic gunfire has been reported in the Rumuokoro axis of the Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, adding to the growing sense of insecurity in the state.
Authorities are yet to provide an official statement on the incidents, but many are calling for calm and swift intervention to prevent further violence.
