The nationwide protests have taken a violent turn in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, evolving from initially peaceful demonstrations to clashes and political turmoil.
On August 5, 2024, a meeting in Port Harcourt involving the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) and federal leaders celebrated what they described as a return to calm.
However, tension flared when the All Progressives Congress (APC) faction reported an attack on their state secretariat on Aba Road.
Tony Okocha, a key APC figure, vowed retaliation, accusing Gov. Sim Fubara’s supporters of orchestrating the assault.
Gov. Fubara had earlier warned of thugs infiltrating the protests, despite assurances of peaceful intent from demonstrators.
The Rivers State Police Command, led by Superintendent Grace Iringe-Koko, acknowledged the violence, including tire burning, extortion, road blockages, and theft.
The police urged protesters to confine their actions to designated areas like Pleasure Park and Abali Park, warning against disruptions and unlawful activities.
The unrest has prompted some former warlords to threaten intervention, and political factions are preparing to counteract each other.
The situation remains fluid, with potential for further escalation beyond peaceful demands for governance reform.
