The Rivers State Judicial Commission of Inquiry has summoned 109 witnesses to investigate the post-election tensions that led to attacks on several secretariat headquarters in various Local Government Areas (LGAs).
On October 7, Emuoha, Ikwerre, and Eleme LGAs were reportedly attacked by alleged political thugs leading to killing and destruction of properties.
This was disclosed in a statement signed by Justice I.R. Minakiri, the Chairman of the Commission, in Port Harcourt on Monday.
Samuel Nwanosike, the former Chairman of Ikwerre LGA, Obarilomate Ollor of Eleme LGA, and Hope Ikiriko of Ahoada West LGA were among the summoned witnesses to appear before the state judiciary.
The statement read, “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 below.”
The panel set October 30 to 31 for Ikwerre LGA, while November 1, 4, and 5 were set for Eleme LGA, and November 6 for Khana witnesses to appear.
According to the document, November 7 was scheduled for Emuoha LGA, November 8 for Obio/Akpor LGA and Ahoada West LGA.
Additionally, a spillover session will be held on November 11.
The statement added, “Before the Rivers State Judicial Commission of Inquiry, appointed by His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Rivers State, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, GSSR, to inquire into the arson, killings, and wanton destruction of properties at some Local Government Council Headquarters, which occurred on or about Monday, October 7, 2024, sitting at the Rivers State Judicial Commission: Hon. Justice I. R. Minakiri’s Court, Block C, Court 14, Rivers State High Court Complex, Port Harcourt, at 9 o’clock, to give evidence and/or tender document(s) in respect of the inquiry.
“Therefore, do not fail, as it may be at your peril. You are required to bring any evidence to establish your case.”
By Helen Okechukwu
