A dramatic scene unfolded at Elekahia Primary School in Port Harcourt City Local Government on Saturday as armed men dressed in police uniforms stormed the venue, causing officials of the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission and voters to flee for their lives.
Eyewitnesses reported that about 21 Hilux Patrol Vans with heavily armed men arrived at the scene, firing tear gas and seizing election materials. The operatives chased RSIEC officials out of the entrance, forcing them to abandon their posts.
In a disturbing display of intimidation, one of the armed men harassed an INEC official, demanding, “Come here, remove that vest. What are you doing here?” The armed men, some of whom wore masks, also ordered officials to remove their vests and hand them over.
As the situation spiralled out of control, the armed men fired tear gas canisters directly into the crowd, sending people running for their lives. Residents and voters scattered in all directions, with many seeking refuge in nearby Ibe and Boms Streets.
The spokesperson for the State Police Command, Grace Iringe-Koko, claimed ignorance of the incident, stating tersely, “I’m not aware. You are just telling me now.”
This disruption to the electoral process raises concerns about the safety and integrity of the elections. The incident has created tension in the area, with many wondering about the motivations behind the armed men’s actions.
