Police Guard Rivers Assembly, Resist Pro-Wike Lawmakers

The police, on Thursday, manned the gates of the Rivers State House of Assembly, resisting an attempt by the 27 lawmakers loyal to former governor Nyesom Wike from gaining entry.

It was learnt that the pro-Wike lawmakers, led by the Speaker, Martin Amaewhule, were at the Assembly to hold a valedictory session in honour of their late colleague, Dinebari Loloox, who represented Khana State Constituency 2.

But the bus conveying the lawmakers, all dressed in black, was stopped by policemen at the gates, who said they had an order not to allow anyone in.

Some of the lawmakers were seen discussing with the policemen who remained adamant and turned them back.

Speaking to our correspondent, a police officer, who did not give his name, said, “What we are doing is to ensure there are no security breaches.

“This morning, we received intelligence that some group of persons came to the Assembly. We don’t know their mission. You know these are distinguished lawmakers, we must ensure their safety. “

It was learnt that the policemen were later persuaded and allowed the lawmakers to enter and hold the valedictory session.