Protesters storm Rivers electoral commission, insist election must hold

On Friday, a group of furious demonstrators surged into the offices of the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission, chanting “The election must take place!” Despite heavy rain, they set up canopies and continued their rhythmic singing and drumming, effectively blocking one side of the road.

This protest followed an early morning confrontation where the governor of Rivers State intervened to prevent the Rivers State Police Command from taking control of the electoral commission’s premises. He expressed his frustration over the police’s intentions to disrupt the upcoming voting, stating, “We don’t need your security. This election will happen on Saturday. Results will be announced, and winners will be sworn in.”

Earlier that morning, security personnel successfully thwarted an attempt by individuals in police uniforms to seize the office of the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission around 1 a.m. Reports indicate that these individuals tried to breach the gates and strongroom to steal sensitive electoral materials intended for Saturday’s local government elections.

An eyewitness, who preferred to remain anonymous, revealed that the plan was foiled when alert security officials notified the commission’s leadership and relevant authorities, prompting immediate action from Governor Siminalayi Fubara.

Additionally, it’s worth noting that the police had previously announced their withdrawal from the election, citing a ruling from a Federal High Court.