Tensions flared in Ahoada East, Rivers State, following the Inspector General of Police’s decision to lift a three-month ban on local government area secretariats.
The area, home to Edison Ehie’s Chief of Staff to the governor, witnessed disagreements as police officers fired into the air to disperse individuals resisting the resumption of the Ahoada East chairman, according to Channels TV.
The lifting of the ban was directed by the Rivers State Police Command’s spokesperson, Grace Iringe-Koko inba statement on Monday.
This move comes after Governor Siminalayi Fubara swore in 23 newly elected local government chairmen, a day after the Rivers State Independent National Electoral Commission conducted grassroots elections.
A similar incident occurred at the Port Harcourt City LGA secretariat, where individuals attempted to barricade the entrance. However, the chairman, Ezebunwo Ichemati, was able to access the premises and supervise cleaning and maintenance.
The secretariats were initially sealed in June due to disagreements between caretaker committee chairmen loyal to Governor Fubara and immediate past local government chairmen supporting Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.
The police have since withdrawn from the secretariats, allowing the newly elected chairmen to assume their duties.
