Fubara, Wike’s supporters clash during medical outreach in Rivers

Supporters of Siminalayi Fubara, governor of Rivers, and Nyesom Wike, minister of the federal capital territory, clashed during a medical outreach on Wednesday.

The outreach took place at the Eliozu community health centre in Obio/Akpor LGA.

Punch reports that the venue of the outreach was close to the residence of Martin Amaewhule, factional speaker of the Rivers house of assembly.

Amaewhule’s supporters were reportedly stopped by supporters of Chijoke Ihunwo, caretaker committee chairman of Obio/Akpor — a scenario that led to a heated debate.

As tempers flared, the medical outreach was abruptly suspended. Stones and cudgels were soon flying from different directions.

Minutes later, a team of police officers arrived at the scene and suppressed the melee with tear gas canisters.

One child who reportedly inhaled tear gas was rushed to hospital.

Grace Iringe-Koko, Rivers police spokesperson, said the command deployed anti-riot police officers to the scene to maintain law and order.

Iringe-Koko said an investigation of the incident has been initiated.

Fubara is embroiled in a political feud with Nyesom Wike, his successor, over control of the political structure in the state.

The political crisis has polarised the Rivers house of assembly, with the disparate factions pledging fealty to Wike or Fubara.