Rivers LG Arson Inquiry: Judicial Panel Summons Wike's Allies, 105 Others (List)
By Wisdom Tide
October 28, 2024
The Rivers State Judicial Commission of Inquiry, investigating the post-election violence that resulted in the arson of several local government secretariats, has issued summonses to key allies of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, alongside 105 others.
Judicial Panel Issues Summons
In a statement released on Monday by the Chairman of the Commission, Hon. Justice I. R. Minakiri, in Port Harcourt, the inquiry panel requested the appearance of several high-profile figures connected to the incidents of violence. These individuals are believed to have played significant roles in the political landscape during and after the election period.
Among those summoned are Dr. Samuel Nwanosike, the former Chairman of Ikwerre Local Government Area, Obarilomate Ollor of Eleme LGA, and Hope Ikiriko of Ahoada East LGA. All three completed their terms as local government chairmen under the leadership of former Governor Nyesom Wike and continued under the current Governor, Siminalayi Fubara.
Political Figures and Legislators Summoned
In addition to the former chairmen, Hon. Aforji Igwe, who represents Eleme Constituency in the Rivers State House of Assembly and is also a known ally of the FCT Minister, has been called to testify. The Commission has identified these individuals due to their potential involvement or knowledge regarding the violent attacks on local government secretariats.
The local government secretariats affected by the violence include Ikwerre, Eleme, and Emuoha LGAs, where suspected political thugs allegedly caused significant damage.
Commission to Hear Witnesses
The Commission's statement, which lists 109 individuals as witnesses, reads:
“Pursuant to the call and receipt of Memoranda by the Judicial Commission of Inquiry into arson, killings, and wanton destruction of property at Local Government Council Headquarters in Rivers State, the following persons are hereby summoned to appear as scheduled.”
The hearings will begin with witnesses from Ikwerre on October 30, followed by Eleme witnesses on November 1, 4, and 5. Witnesses from Khana LGA are scheduled for November 6, while those from Emuoha LGA will appear on November 7. Additionally, witnesses from Obio/Akpor and Ahoada East LGAs are set to testify on November 8, with spillover witnesses to be heard on November 11.
Panel's Objectives and Warnings
The Rivers State Judicial Commission of Inquiry, appointed by Governor Siminalayi Fubara, is tasked with investigating the arson, killings, and destruction of properties at the affected local government secretariats. The Commission's hearings will be held at the Rivers State High Court Complex, Court 14, Block C, under the chairmanship of Hon. Justice I. R. Minakiri.
The statement urges all summoned individuals to appear before the panel with any relevant evidence or documents that may support their testimony. It concludes with a stern warning:
“To give evidence and/or tender document(s) in respect of the inquiry. Therefore, do not fail, as it may be at your peril.”
The inquiry aims to uncover the perpetrators and establish accountability for the violence that occurred on or around October 7, 2024, and to ensure justice for the victims and communities affected by the unrest
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