BREAKING Massive Shooting at Oyigbo LG Headquarters, Newly Elected Chairman Reportedly Injured

Tensions continue to escalate in Rivers State as gunfire erupted in Oyigbo Local Government Area on Monday, leaving the newly elected chairman, alongside others, reportedly injured in the chaos. This incident is part of the ongoing post-election crisis that has engulfed several local government areas in the state, sparking fears of further unrest.

Eyewitnesses reported hearing sporadic gunshots near the Oyigbo council secretariat early in the day, leading to widespread panic as residents sought cover. The shooting reportedly occurred during a confrontation between rival political supporters, following the controversial outcome of the local government elections held over the weekend.

Tragically, the newly elected chairman of Oyigbo LGA, whose identity has not yet been officially released, was said to have sustained injuries during the shooting. While details of his condition remain unclear, local sources claim he was caught in the crossfire while attempting to address escalating tensions between opposing groups. He was reportedly rushed to a nearby medical facility for treatment, though no official statement has been made regarding his current health status.

The violence in Oyigbo reflects the broader unrest sweeping through Rivers State after opposition parties gained seats in multiple local government areas. Residents remain on edge, as Oyigbo is one of several local governments affected by the crisis. Over the past few days, secretariats in Ikwerre and Eleme LGAs were set ablaze in similar post-election violence, raising concerns that the unrest may continue to spread.

The Rivers State Police Command has yet to issue a formal statement on the shooting or the injuries sustained by the chairman. However, community leaders and stakeholders are urging the state government to take swift action to contain the violence and restore peace in Oyigbo and other affected areas.

One resident, speaking under anonymity, described the fear and uncertainty gripping the community: "Everyone is afraid. With gunshots in the streets and reports of the chairman being injured, it feels like things are getting out of control. We need security and peace."

The newly elected local government chairmen were expected to assume office following their swearing-in ceremony on Sunday. However, the escalating violence in Oyigbo and other local government areas has disrupted these plans, with fears that further conflicts could delay the start of their administration.

As Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara faces increasing pressure to address the situation, calls for heightened security and a decisive response grow louder. The people of Oyigbo, still reeling from the violence, are left anxiously awaiting steps from both state authorities and security agencies to ensure their safety and prevent further bloodshed.

The state remains on high alert, as citizens hope for swift intervention to quell the rising tensions before the crisis deepens further.