Tensions Erupt In Rivers State As Police Disperse Protesters Calling For Cybercrime Act Repeal And Return Of Governor Fubara.
A tense confrontation unfolded in Rivers State on Monday as police clashed with demonstrators protesting against the Cybercrime Act and demanding the reinstatement of Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
The protesters, primarily affiliated with the ‘Take It Back Movement’ and several Civil Society Organisations, had initially gathered at Isaac Boro Park in Port Harcourt. However, following instructions from the police, they were redirected to the Federal Secretariat along Aba Road. Despite complying with the directive, the situation took a dramatic turn as the group approached the CFC roundabout, where officers fired teargas and forcefully dispersed the crowd.
Eyewitnesses reported scenes of chaos as several demonstrators, including journalists, sustained injuries. Protesters were chased by security personnel, and some were allegedly beaten during the incident.
The demonstration was aimed at pressing for the repeal of the Cybercrime Act, which activists argue infringes on fundamental human rights. Protesters also condemned what they described as the unconstitutional removal of Governor Fubara and the Rivers State House of Assembly, stating that the state’s leadership had been undemocratically replaced.
Amanye King, Coordinator of the Take It Back Movement in Rivers State, expressed dismay over the police’s actions. “We are here as an organisation affiliated with others to march and express our grievances; we are not here to cause any harm. Yet, security agencies are dispersing our people,” he said.
“We want the Cybercrime Act repealed, and as Rivers people, we are here to speak against the unconstitutional removal of our elected governor and Assembly. What we currently have is not a government of the people — it is alien to us. We demand the return of our governor,” King added.
Solomon Lenu, Coordinator of the Coalition of the Rivers State Civil Society, also criticised the situation, warning that democracy in Nigeria was under threat. “What is happening is a rape of democracy. There is no justification for the suspension of an elected government. This is a democracy, not a dictatorship,” he stated.
According to multiple eyewitness accounts, the protest was initially peaceful. The Divisional Police Officer (DPO) had reportedly instructed the group to vacate Isaac Boro Park and proceed to the Federal Secretariat, deemed a safer location for the demonstration. However, as protesters moved through the CFC roundabout, a different police unit intervened, blocking their path and demanding that they disband.
One eyewitness recounted: “The DPO addressed them at Isaac Boro Park and told them to move to Aba Road. But as they approached the roundabout near the Catholic Church, another set of police vehicles intercepted them, and orders were given to disperse the protest. Teargas canisters were suddenly fired from behind.”
The scene quickly descended into panic as the protesters fled to escape the choking effects of the gas. Military personnel were also reportedly involved in dispersing the crowd, with about 15 security patrol vehicles seen chasing individuals along Aba Road.
Despite the crackdown, organisers have vowed to continue their advocacy, calling on the government to uphold democratic values and listen to the voices of the people. As tensions remain high in Rivers State, civil society groups are urging for restraint, dialogue, and respect for constitutional order.
