The Rivers State Police Command has confirmed two explosions in Port Harcourt that occurred early Saturday during local government elections.
The explosions targeted the Rivers All Progressives Congress (APC) secretariat, led by Tony Okocha, and the Obio/Akpor Local Government headquarters.
The first explosion, reported around 3:00 AM, hit the APC Secretariat on Aba Road. A security guard heard a loud bang and saw three black Toyota Hilux vans fleeing the scene. The blast caused extensive damage to the gate, shattered windows, and set the security post on fire.
About 30 minutes later, the second explosion occurred at the Obio/Akpor Council secretariat. Witnesses reported seeing a black Toyota Hilux and a white Sienna van pass by before an object, believed to be a stick of dynamite, was thrown at the building. This blast damaged the complex’s roof and generator house.
In response to the incidents, police dispatched the Explosive Ordinance Disposal (EOD) and Anti-Bomb Squad to both locations. They recovered an improvised explosive device (IED) from the APC secretariat and incendiary materials used in the security post-fire.
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The police are actively investigating, and samples have been collected for further analysis by the EOD unit.
Grace Iringe-Koko, the Command’s spokesperson, confirmed that investigations are ongoing to determine the perpetrators behind the attacks. While no casualties have been reported, the explosions have heightened tensions amid the local elections. Local authorities and security agencies are working to ensure public safety and order in the affected areas.
Further updates are expected as the police continue their investigation.
