Some youths in the Degema Local Government Area of Rivers State stormed the council headquarters following the expiration of the local government chairmen’s tenure.
The LG chairmen in the state, under the aegis of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria, have vowed to remain in office.
They cited the Local Government Amendment Law, enacted by the Martin Amaewhule-led 27-member House of Assembly, which empowers them to extend their tenure by six months.
The Chairman of Port Harcourt City Local Government Area and state ALGON Chairman, Allwell Ihunda, asserted that the law passed by the House of Assembly allows them to stay in office.
In contrast, state Governor Sim Fubara warned the LG chairmen to avoid any actions that could disrupt the state’s peace following their tenure’s expiration.
The council chairmen, who were elected during former Governor Nyesom Wike’s tenure, have been at odds with Fubara, reflecting a broader political disagreement between the two leaders.
Reportedly, youths in Degema occupied the council secretariat, singing and insisting that the LG chairmen should not remain in office past their tenure or return to the council.
A similar scene unfolded in the Asari-Toru Local Government Area, where youths also occupied the council headquarters.
The protesters vowed to remain at the council headquarters until Wednesday when work resumes, daring the chairmen to come to the secretariat.
In Port Harcourt City Local Government Area and Obio/Akpor LG, a significant security presence has been deployed to prevent any security breaches.
The protests have heightened tension in the state, with concerns that they could spread to other local governments.
Spokesperson for the State Police Command, Grace Iringe-Koko, confirmed the protests and stated that the police are monitoring the situation closely. She urged everyone to maintain peace, saying, “Our men were on a show of strength this morning. We are still monitoring the situation, and we want to urge everyone to maintain peace in the state.”
