Popular Action condemns silence on Port Harcourt explosion

The People’s Action Party has criticised the silence of key security figures including National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun, Rivers State Commissioner of Police Olatunji Disu and the Department of State Services (DSS) over the recent explosive incident at a protest in Port Harcourt. The protest, organised by supporters of Minister Nyesom Wike, left one person dead and several others injured.

Speaking at a press conference, People’s Action Party representative, Comrade Anderson Achilike, condemned the lack of response from security agencies, saying it was tarnishing the reputation of President Bola Tinubu’s administration. He pointed out that while Governor Sim Fubara is the head of security in Rivers State, the power to command federal security agencies rests solely with President Tinubu.

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“As an opposition party, we are alarmed by the continued silence of the NSA, IGP, CP and DSS since Tuesday’s incident where supporters of the FCT Minister allegedly detonated an explosive device, causing death and injuries,” Achilike said.

He added: “Even though we generally avoid intervening in conflicts between the ruling APC and the PDP, the main opposition, our role as a dynamic opposition requires us to hold the government to account. The inaction of these security agencies emboldens Wike’s supporters and reflects badly on the Tinubu administration, portraying it as indifferent to the security and well-being of Nigerians.”

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The Action People’s Party urged President Tinubu to fulfil his constitutional obligation to protect citizens, saying: “The President must direct his security chiefs to secure Rivers State and bring the perpetrators of this heinous act to justice. Swift action is essential to preserve his image as a leader committed to saving lives.