There was chaos in Isiokpo, the headquarters of Ikwerre Local Government Area in Rivers State, on Monday as heavily armed police officers fired gunshots and deployed teargas to disperse workers attempting to return to the council offices. Witnesses described the scene as officers, arriving in multiple patrol vans, stormed the council secretariat in what they called “commando style,” causing staff to flee in panic.
The incident unfolded shortly after the National Union of Local Government Employees had directed council workers to resume duties. Ikwerre LGA was among those worst affected by recent attacks on local councils by suspected political thugs following contentious local elections, leading to a temporary closure of several council offices to prevent further violence. Tensions ran high as the council headquarters was reopened, only to face immediate police intervention.
Eyewitnesses reported injuries among staff, including two women who reportedly fainted during the melee. Many workers fled into surrounding bushes for safety. “This morning, union leaders told workers to resume,” said one worker who wished to remain anonymous. “Suddenly, more than 100 policemen showed up, firing teargas and gunshots. People scattered in all directions, and two women collapsed.”
Richard Henry, Chief of Staff of Ikwerre LGA, confirmed the incident, expressing concerns over possible casualties as many workers ran into the bush to escape. “They came onto the premises with teargas, and everyone was running. Our people are hurt—mothers and youths,” he said, adding that the police arrived with a water cannon and several patrol vehicles. Henry condemned the police action, calling it “unwarranted” and noting that an inquiry into the council arson is currently ongoing at the Rivers State Judicial Commission.
The police have acknowledged their role, with Rivers State Police Command spokesperson Grace Iringe-Koko stating that the police were present to maintain order in light of recent damage to council properties. “Officers were deployed to restore peace and prevent further damage to the premises,” Iringe-Koko explained. “The Ikwerre secretariat suffered major destruction. This morning, around 300 people broke into the premises, so police intervention was necessary to prevent looting or additional vandalism.”
As inquiries continue into the recent council attacks, tensions remain high in Rivers State, with local authorities and police at odds over how to protect public buildings and keep the peace amid a contentious political climate.
