In a series of coordinated attacks, suspected hoodlums have set fire to sections of newly built council secretariats in Isiokpo, Eleme, and Emohua, all within Rivers State. The incidents come just 24 hours after Governor Sim Fubara swore in 23 newly elected local government chairmen following the weekend’s elections.
The attacks, which occurred around 11 a.m. on Monday, targeted the council headquarters in Ikwerre, Eleme, and Emohua Local Government Areas, with the thugs vandalizing property and setting buildings ablaze to prevent the newly elected chairmen from taking office.
In Eleme LGA, the secretariat was one of the first hit, with parts of the building set on fire. The attackers reportedly vowed to block the newly sworn-in chairman from assuming control. Similarly, in Isiokpo, Ikwerre LGA, the office of the chairman was set alight by protesters disputing the legitimacy of the election results.
The most violent incident occurred in Emohua LGA, where youths attacked the council secretariat shortly after Chairman David Omereji had inaugurated his deputy and 14 councillors. The attackers reportedly detonated explosives, believed to be dynamite, causing widespread damage to the building and destroying property within the premises.
Local residents confirmed the incidents, and videos and photos showing the destruction have been circulating on social media. Authorities have yet to provide an official statement on the attacks, while investigations are expected to commence.
