Tensions flared at the Rivers State Government House as security personnel and officers attached to Vice Admiral Ibok Ete Ibas (Rtd), the outgoing Sole Administrator, staged a protest, accusing him of attempting to leave office without addressing their welfare concerns.
The demonstration, which erupted on Tuesday, was marked by chants of “We are not doing again,” as the personnel expressed frustration over alleged attempts by Ibas to “sneak away with the state’s wealth” while leaving them empty-handed.
According to sources at the Government House, the protesters claimed that Ibas had failed to fulfill financial obligations owed to them, including allowances and other entitlements accrued during his tenure as Sole Administrator.
The personnel, comprising both police and other security operatives, barricaded key areas of the Government House, demanding accountability and immediate payment of their dues before Ibas’ exit.
The protest comes amid a backdrop of political turmoil in Rivers State, following President Bola Tinubu’s order for Ibas to submit a comprehensive handover note to facilitate the reinstatement of Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
Efforts to reach Ibas or his representatives for comment were unsuccessful at the time of this report.
However, a senior official in the Rivers State Government, speaking anonymously, described the situation as “regrettable” and assured that steps were being taken to address the concerns of the protesting personnel.
Click to signup for FREE news updates, latest information and hottest gists everyday
Advertise on NigerianEye.com to reach thousands of our daily users