Rivers Police confirm twin explosions at APC secretariat, begin investigation

The Rivers State Police Command has confirmed two explosions in Port Harcourt, targeting the APC Secretariat and Obio/Akpor Council secretariat, stating that it has launched an investigation into the matter.

The two bomb explosions struck in the early hours of Saturday.

According to a statement by the Command’s spokesperson, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, the incident happened around 3:0o am, when a loud bang was reported at the APC Secretariat on Aba Road.

She said a preliminary investigation revealed three black Toyota Hilux vans speeding away from the scene.

Again, around 3:30 am, eyewitnesses reported seeing a black Toyota Hilux van and a white Toyota Sienna minivan drive past the Obio/Akpor Council secretariat.

The occupants allegedly threw an object, suspected to be a stick of dynamite, which shattered the roof and damaged the generator house.

She noted that the explosion destroyed the gate, shattered windows, and set the security building ablaze.

Iringe-Koko added that a second explosion occurred at 3:30 AM at the Obio/Akpor Council secretariat.

Witnesses reported seeing a black Toyota Hilux van and a white Toyota Sienna minivan drive past the secretariat, with occupants allegedly throwing an object suspected to be a stick of dynamite.

She said: “The first explosion was reported at the APC Secretariat on Aba Road at approximately 3:00 AM. A security guard reported hearing a loud bang and, upon investigation, observed three black Toyota Hilux vans speeding away from the scene.

“The explosion caused significant damage, destroying the gate and shattering the windows of the building. Additionally, the security building was set ablaze.

“The second explosion occurred at the Obio/Akpor Council secretariat around 3:30 AM. Eyewitnesses reported seeing a black Toyota Hilux van and a white Toyota Sienna minivan drive past the secretariat.

“The occupants of these vehicles allegedly threw an object, suspected to be a stick of dynamite, which shattered the roof and caused damage to the generator house of the complex.

She, however, said the Explosive Ordinance Disposal (EOD) and Anti-Bomb Squad had been deployed to both locations.

She disclosed that an improvised explosive device (IED) was recovered at the APC secretariat, and incendiary materials were identified in the arson attack on the security building, adding that forensic analysis is ongoing, and investigations aim to apprehend the perpetrators.

She further stated that the Command urged the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to ensure community safety.

“We assure the residents of Port Harcourt that every possible measure is being taken to enhance security and ensure the safety of our community,” she disclosed.

Meanwhile, Tony Okocha, the caretaker committee chairman of the APC, has called for federal protection, alleging that the APC is under attack in Rivers State.