Tensions escalated in Port Harcourt, Rivers State capital, on Tuesday as the #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria protests entered the sixth day.
Protesters besieged a mansion in Ada George, Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of the state owned by a former governor of the state and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike.
The mansion was targeted by over 50 protesters.
The group marched from Agip Junction and gathered in front of Wike’s house, singing the old national anthem, “Arise, O Compatriots.”
Armed policemen formed a barrier to keep the protesters at a distance and prevented them from approaching the mansion.
#EndBadGovernanceinNigeria: If we lose Abuja, we lose Nigeria – Wike
The protesters were blocked from getting close to the property by an Armoured Personnel Carrier stationed nearby.
After about 49 minutes, the protesters dispersed and continued their march.
They also caused a stir when they passed Hyper City Mall, which belongs to Wike, but were met with a heavy police presence.
The spokesperson for the state police command, Grace Iringe-Koko, confirmed that no property belonging to Wike was attacked.
She stated, “The protesters only marched past the building. The police ensured they remained on the other side of the road and did not confront them.”
