Police: Hoodlums using protest to harass residents in Rivers

The Rivers police command says suspected hoodlums are using the ongoing nationwide protest as an opportunity to harass and intimidate residents of the state.

Since last week, youths across the country have taken to the streets for the #EndBadGovernance protest.

The demonstrations have been themed: ’10 Days of Rage’.

The protesters are demanding a lean government, a return of the petrol subsidy regime, food security, and fiscal discipline among others.

In some parts of the country, the protests have led to widespread looting and vandalism of private and public property.

On Monday, protesters in Rivers barricaded the Eleme-Onne section of the east-west road.

On Tuesday, some protesters also vandalised the secretariat of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state.

Speaking on Wednesday, Grace Iringe-Koko, police spokesperson in the state, said the main purpose of the #EndBadGovernance protest has been compromised by rogue elements.

The police spokesperson said these individuals are now exploiting the situation to attack drivers and business owners in the state.

“The ongoing protests in Rivers have devolved into criminal activities, with hoodlums harassing residents going about their lawful business,” NAN quoted her as saying.

“They have been disrupting traffic, forcing motorists to attach leaves to their vehicles, erecting canopies on main roads, destroying billboards, and threatening traders.

“The protesters have also set tires ablaze on the roads.”

The police spokesperson warned protesters to stay within designated areas or face swift action.

“Protesters are advised to confine their activities to designated areas of Abali Park and Pleasure Park,” she said.

“Any further disruption will be met with firm resistance, and offenders will face arrest and prosecution.

“We also urge parents to caution their children and wards, as the police will not tolerate any breach of peace and unlawful activities.”

Iringe-Koko refuted claims of an attack on the residence of Nyesom Wike, former Rivers governor, adding that the police will conduct a thorough investigation and make findings public.

“I am not aware of such an incident; I am sure nothing like that happened,” she said.