Rivers polls: ‘Election must hold’, Protesters storm electoral commission office

Protesters gathered at the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC) office, chanting “Election must hold!” to express their determination to defend the electoral process on Friday

Despite heavy rainfall, the youths set up canopies and blocked one side of the road while drumming and singing. Their aim was to prevent any attempts to derail the upcoming local government elections, scheduled for Saturday.

Prominent figures at the protest included Edison Ehie, Chief of Staff to the Governor; Victor Oko-Jumbo, Speaker of the Pro-Fubara lawmakers; and Sokari Goodboy, a representative for Ahoada West.

Earlier that morning, security operatives successfully thwarted an attempt by individuals dressed in police uniforms to take control of the RSIEC office.

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Reports indicate that these intruders sought to breach the gates and access the commission’s strong room, aiming to steal sensitive electoral materials.

A witness, who preferred to remain anonymous, stated, “The attempt was thwarted after alert security officers informed principal officials of the commission and relevant authorities, who quickly notified Governor Siminalayi Fubara.”

This protest followed a visit by Governor Siminalayi Fubara to the RSIEC at 1 AM, where he claimed to have intervened to prevent the Rivers State Police Command from taking control of the premises.

This situation is further complicated by the police’s recent announcement, referencing a Federal High Court ruling that mandated their withdrawal from overseeing the elections.

NIGERIAN TRIBUNE