Security officials in Rivers State foiled an attempt by individuals dressed in police uniforms to take over the office of the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission.
The incident occurred at 1 a.m. on Friday.
According to reports, the miscreants attempted to break past the commission’s gates and strong room to steal critical electoral materials intended for the state’s local government election on Saturday.
A source who witnessed the incident but was not authorized to speak on the matter said, “The move was botched when vigilant security officials alerted principal officers of the commission and relevant government authorities, who immediately informed Governor Siminalayi Fubara of the development.”
According to the source, the governor led a delegation of government officials, parliamentarians from the National Assembly and the State House of Assembly, senior political figures, and other leaders to the scene.
Speaking to reporters in front of the RSIEC Office on Aba Road in Port Harcourt, Fubara denounced the act and praised the security personnel for their attentiveness.
Another Government House source said, “The governor said local government election was the internal affairs of states, and advised those trying to truncate the process and cause anarchy in the state to allow the federation unit conduct its affairs without interference.”
Meanwhile, Punch correspondent learned that several government officials, stakeholders, and supporters are currently guarding the property.
Attempts to call the state Police Public Relations Officer, Grace Iringe-Koko, were unsuccessful since her phone did not connect.
