Supporters of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Rivers State staged a significant protest on Thursday against the forthcoming local government elections organized by the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC), set to take place on October 5.
The demonstration was led by the party’s state chairman, Chukwuemeka Aaron, and drew thousands of party loyalists who marched through the streets of Port Harcourt, undeterred by heavy rainfall.
The protest began at the PDP secretariat on Aba Road early in the morning, with participants gathering as early as 7 am. Among the notable figures present were former local government chairmen from Eleme, Gokana, Andoni, and Emuoha, including Obarimate Ollor, Confidence Deko, Erastus Awortu, and Chidi Lloyd. Their presence underscored the solidarity within the party against the planned elections.
Carrying a variety of placards that expressed their discontent, the protesters moved towards the Department of State Services (DSS) office along the Old GRA axis.
Their signs bore messages such as “RSIEC obey court order,” “Rivers State is not lawless,” and “Police and Army must not support RSIEC,” reflecting their demands for adherence to legal processes surrounding the elections.
Upon reaching the DSS office, the demonstrators were addressed by a representative, who listened to their grievances. The crowd, energized by their cause, then proceeded to the State Police Command Headquarters, chanting slogans in support of Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory and a prominent figure in the party. Among the chants were, “Under the rain, under the sun, we will follow Wike,” and “No election in Rivers State,” emphasizing their collective resolve.
As the protest continued, the number of participants swelled at the police headquarters, prompting officials to invite the protest leaders for a brief meeting. This dialogue aimed to address the protesters’ concerns regarding the legitimacy and fairness of the upcoming local government elections.
After the meeting, the demonstrators dispersed peacefully, singing solidarity songs in support of Wike and reaffirming their commitment to the party’s principles. The protest highlighted the ongoing tensions surrounding the electoral process in Rivers State and the PDP’s dedication to ensuring that local governance aligns with the rule of law.
This protest reflects a broader sentiment among party members who feel that the impending elections are not being conducted under fair circumstances, and it remains to be seen how the RSIEC will respond to the calls for compliance with court orders and the demands for a transparent electoral process.
