Ogona Anita
Tension escalated on Monday as the Nigerian police violently dispersed local government workers in Isiokpo, headquarters of the Ikwerre Local Government Area, using teargas and live ammunition.
It was gathered that the police arrived in several patrol vans, and executed a commando-style operation at the council secretariat, shooting sporadically to scatter the assembled workers who were awaiting a resumption directive from the National Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE).
The incident came after the National Union of Local Government Employees issued a directive for council workers to resume their duties.
However, the attack, reminiscent of recent violence in the area, left workers unable to return to their posts.
Ikwerre Local Government Area has been particularly affected by unrest following the local government elections, which saw suspected political thugs attack several councils.
Meanwhile, to prevent a resurgence of the violence and arson that had plagued the council, police had previously locked down the council headquarters and two others.
Eyewitnesses described a chaotic scene where scores of workers, including two women, were injured while attempting to flee during a shooting incident. Many reportedly sought refuge in nearby bushes.An anonymous source, fearing for their safety, recounted, “This morning, the National Union of Local Government Workers instructed its members to report to work at the Ikwerre Local Government.
“While we were present, we noticed over 100 armed police officers. They began shooting and deploying tear gas, causing workers and women to run for safety.
“As I speak, two women have collapsed, and the police are restricting access to medical assistance.”
Richard Henry, Chief of Staff of Ikwerre LGA, confirmed the incident, indicating potential casualties as numerous workers fled into the surrounding bushes.
Henry stated, “They entered the premises and released tear gas, causing people to scatter. Our mothers and youths who were present sustained injuries. We’re uncertain about any fatalities since many ran into the bush. The police arrived with a water cannon and around 11 Hilux vans.”
Condemning the police’s actions, he described the assault as unnecessary, noting that the matter regarding the burning of the councils is currently before the Rivers State Judicial Commission of Inquiry.
“All of them were armed. This issue is under investigation by the Rivers State Judicial Commission of Inquiry, yet they used tear gas against everyone, which is unfair. We will resist this,” he asserted.
In response, the police acknowledged their presence at the Ikwerre council secretariat.
Grace Iringe-Koko, spokesperson for the state police command, explained that the secretariat was closed due to extensive damage from arson.
She stated, “These are not just any men in police uniforms; they are officers from the command deployed to maintain law and order.
“Due to the recent burning of local government facilities, the governor established a panel of inquiry to investigate the causes of the attacks, which is still ongoing. All affected Secretariat are currently secured, and the Ikwerre LGA sustained significant damage.
“Recently, a mob of over 300 breached the gate and forced their way into the secretariat, likely intending to loot or further vandalise property. That prompted the police to intervene.Our officers quickly mobilised to ensure public order and prevent further destruction of facilities.”
Source: PUNCH
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