A chaotic scene unfolded on Monday at the Ikwerre Local Government Area headquarters in Isiokpo as police officers deployed teargas and gunfire to disperse local government workers. The workers, who had gathered to resume work, were reportedly acting on a directive from the National Union of Local Government Employees.
Eyewitnesses described the police approach as “commando-style,” with multiple patrol vans arriving and officers firing sporadically. The unexpected force caused workers to flee in all directions, with many seeking refuge in nearby bushes. Several workers, including two women, were injured in the process.
Background of the Incident
The Ikwerre Local Government Area was recently affected by violent attacks by suspected political thugs, who targeted several council offices after local government elections. Since then, Ikwerre and two other councils in Rivers State have been closed to prevent further incidents of arson and violence. The closure was part of an effort to maintain security following significant damage to the council facilities.
An anonymous witness recounted, “The union asked members to return to work at the Ikwerre Local Government secretariat. As soon as we gathered, over 100 armed police officers showed up, firing teargas and bullets into the air. In the panic, two women collapsed, and the police initially blocked access for medical assistance.”
Local Government Official’s Response
Richard Henry, Chief of Staff of Ikwerre LGA, confirmed the incident, expressing frustration over the excessive force used by police. “They came and fired teargas everywhere, causing people to run in panic. Women, youths—many were injured. Some fled into the bush, and we’re not sure if there are fatalities. The police had a water cannon and arrived in 11 Hilux vans,” he said.
Henry criticized the police’s actions as unjustified, noting that the matter surrounding the council attacks is currently under review by the Rivers State Judicial Commission of Inquiry. “The inquiry is ongoing, yet the police came here and teargassed everyone. We will not tolerate this kind of treatment,” he stated.
Police Justify Actions as Necessary for Security
Grace Iringe-Koko, spokesperson for the Rivers State Police Command, confirmed the police presence at the Ikwerre council secretariat. She explained that officers were deployed to “maintain law and order” after a crowd of over 300 reportedly broke through the gates of the council building, potentially intending to cause further destruction.
“The police acted swiftly to prevent any breakdown of law and order. The Ikwerre LGA was one of the most severely damaged in recent attacks, and the area is currently under the review of a judicial inquiry. Our officers were there to restore peace and protect government property,” Iringe-Koko explained.
The incident underscores ongoing tensions in the state following recent election-related violence, with heightened security measures now standard at affected council facilities.
