Political Drama Unfolds at Rivers State Health Center as Police Teargas Gov Fubara Loyalists

In a bizarre twist of events, supporters of Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara and Minister Nyesom Wike clashed at a healthcare outreach event in the Eliozu community, Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State. The incident, which took place on July 24, 2024, involved the use of teargas and water cannons by the police, leaving a baby unconscious and several others injured.

The drama began when supporters of the two political factions converged at the Eliozu Primary Health Care Center for a maternal and child health care week flag-off event. According to reports, the venue was near the residence of Martin Amaewhule, the leader of the 27 lawmakers loyal to Wike. Supporters of the Caretaker Committee Chairman of Obio/Akpor LGA, Chijioke Ihunwo, who were at the venue, allegedly stopped Amaewhule’s supporters from accessing the venue, leading to a heated argument and subsequent clash.

The situation escalated quickly, with the police arriving at the scene and firing teargas to disperse the opposing groups. In the chaos, a baby was reportedly tear-gassed and became unconscious. The child was rushed to the facility and later regained consciousness.

Ambassador Chijioke Ihunwo, the Caretaker Committee Chairman of Obio/Akpor LGA, accused the police of bias and harassment. He alleged that the police, acting on the orders of Martin Amaewhule, fired shots into the air and released teargas to disperse residents attending the healthcare programme.

The Rivers State Police Public Relation Officer, Grace Iringe-Koko, confirmed that the police responded to a distress call over the scenario and that an investigation was ongoing. However, she did not provide further details on the incident.

The incident has raised concerns about the use of excessive force by the police and the politicization of healthcare programs. It also highlights the ongoing political tensions in Rivers State between the supporters of Governor Fubara and Minister Wike.

The healthcare outreach was later moved to a state-owned medical facility at the Waterlines axis of Port Harcourt, where the program was launched. The incident serves as a reminder of the need for peaceful and non-violent resolution of political differences, especially in public spaces like healthcare facilities.