ALGON raises alarm over violent protest in Rivers

Accuses Fubara of complicity

The Association of Local Government of Nigeria (ALGON), Rivers State chapter, has raised a red flag over the deteriorating situation of the #EndBadGovernance protest in the state.

In a scathing press briefing, ALGON denounced the escalating violence, lawlessness, and chaos that have characterised the protest, and condemned Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s inaction, while accusing him of complicity.

The association expressed concern over reports of extortion, property destruction, and subversive chants. This development is in addition to the growing tensions in the state, as ALGON and Fubara’s administration are engaged in a bitter confrontation.

ALGON accused Fubara of secretly sponsoring the protest, citing his remarks on Day 1 when he offered to give money for “pure water” and bread to the protesters.

The association, which is pro-Nyesom Wike, the former governor of the state and the current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), warned of a looming crisis, urging the governor to take immediate action to restore order and prevent further devastation in the state.

Speaking on behalf of his colleagues, the embattled Chairman of Port Harcourt City Council, Allwell Ihunda, criticised Fubara’s handling of the situation, accusing him of failing to take a firm stance against the protest, saying that his seeming silence was loud enough to justify that he is in support of the protesters’ actions.

He said: “Ordinarily, the governor, being the Chief Security Officer, instead of taking a clear and staunch proactive stance like his indifferent about the unlawful, chaotic and implosive actions by protesters.

“Surprisingly, in his address on the first day of the protest, Fubara justified the protest, while applauding and lending credence, as well as moving among them showing affirmation to the unlawful acts of the protesters. This is indicative of foul play, a twist in the sworn obligation to ensure security and wellbeing of citizens.”

Also, the embattled Chairman of Emohua Local Council, Chidi Lloyd, accused the governor of being the “real enemy” of the state.

He alleged that Fubara’s actions, including cancelling 10,000 jobs, have brought the state to its knees.

He, however, lauded President Bola Tinubu’s bold decisions, saying that his policies need more time to impact the people. Lloyd noted that the President’s economic policies are already yielding positive results.