THE Movement for the Survival of the Ogoni People (MOSOP) has warned that Rivers State is fast drifting into a state of anarchy and if nothing is done urgently by government and its security apparatus, the state may revert back to the dark days of uncontrollable, politically motivated gang violence.
This is just as the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Rivers State chapter, has raised alarm over the return of former militants in the state, saying that the people are not sure of getting protection from the police.
MOSOP president, Legborsi Pyagbara, said the ugly political development in the state goes beyond mere presidential and PDP's hierarchical denials of involvement in the avoidable impasse in Rivers State Chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party.
According to him, it requires immediate, practical and decisive steps to put an end to the crisis including ensuring security of live and property in the state.
MOSOP said it took this position in view of the events of the past couple of days, occasioning re-emergence of gangs reportedly taking over some strategic streets in Port Harcourt, cult rivalry and violence, some of which (violence) have been reportedly aborted by the security forces. It said this situation is troubling and should be roundly condemned.
NLC blamed the state Commissioner of Police, Mbu Joseph Mbu, for the worsening security situation in the state.
Its state chairman, Chris Oruge, expressed the view when he led a delegation of members and activists on a solidarity visit to Governor Chibuike Amaechi at Government House, Port Harcourt Friday.
Oruge said: "All the militants, the bad boys who had left this state have reconvened and have been doing what they are doing."
"The result of their actions is on those of us who have no security, have nobody to protect us except the Almighty God," he alarmed.
Oruge, however, assured Governor Amaechi that the NLC leadership and its members in the state would continue to support him despite his current political challenge. "We are here to make our point and to tell you (Amaechi) that labour is solidly behind you and we will continue to support your government," he said.
The Guardian