About 30 heavily armed policemen and Armoured Personnel Carriers have been stationed at the Rivers House of Assembly quarters, further escalating political tensions in the state.
The deployment follows claims made by the factional Speaker of the Assembly, Martins Amaewhule (Obio/Akpor constituency 1) that Gov. Siminalayi Fubara was plotting to demolish the residential quarters of state lawmakers.
Fubara’s unannounced visit to the quarters on Wednesday sparked speculation about his intentions for visiting the facility without prior notice.
However, the governor told journalists that his visit was for an on-the-spot assessment of the structures’ condition for possible rehabilitation.
Political analysts suggest that Fubara’s visit may be linked to a recent call by the Chairman of the Caretaker Committee of the All Progressive Congress, Tony Okocha, urging state lawmakers to initiate impeachment proceedings against the governor.
Nevertheless, the Police Command in Rivers maintains that the deployment of personnel to the assembly quarters was for the purpose of upholding peace and not for partisan interests.
SP Grace Iringe-Koko, the command spokesperson, clarified in a statement in Port Harcourt on Saturday, expressing concern over the recent political developments that prompted the deployment.
“Our deployment in the area is solely aimed at ensuring peace and preventing any possible breakdown of order.
“We assure the public that there is no cause for alarm, and all individuals are encouraged to carry on with their lawful activities without fear.
“Cooperation from the public is greatly appreciated as the police command strives to maintain a safe and secure environment for all,” she assured.