Gunshots rang out in Port Harcourt on Friday as tensions escalated between supporters of Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, and loyalists of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, at the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) secretariat along the Port Harcourt-Aba Expressway.
According to Diaspora digital media (DDM), the conflict erupted when Fubara’s supporters attempted to reclaim the PDP office, which had been taken over by security operatives following a court ruling that nullified the Aaron Chukwuemeka-led party executive.
Gunshots were heard during the confrontation, with conflicting reports on their source.
While some eyewitnesses claimed security operatives guarding the facility fired the gunshots, others alleged they came from political thugs trying to seize control of the building.
The clash is the latest in the ongoing power struggle between Fubara and Wike, his predecessor, which has deepened since the court’s decision to dissolve Chukwuemeka’s executive.
The leadership battle within Rivers PDP has created a sharp division between the two camps.
Fubara’s supporters argue that the party structure should return to their control, while Wike’s loyalists are determined to retain dominance.
Security operatives had been stationed at the secretariat after the court judgment, preventing Fubara’s camp from gaining access to the premises.
On Friday, the governor’s supporters made another attempt to reclaim the building, leading to another round of gunshots and a violent confrontation.
Gunshots continued to echo as the rival factions clashed, creating panic in the area.
The situation escalated as both sides accused each other of instigating the violence.
Residents and passersby fled for safety, fearing further gunshots and unrest.
The ongoing battle for control of Rivers PDP remains a significant political crisis in the state.
Despite security interventions, tensions remain high, and both factions appear unwilling to back down.
Observers fear that without a resolution, more gunshots and clashes may occur in the coming days.
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