Police in Port Harcourt Deploy Teargas as Residents Gather for "Take It Back" and "Bring Back Governor Sim" Demonstration

Police in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria, have clamped down on a planned demonstration by residents who gathered along Aba Road to protest against the state government's leadership.

The protesters, who were calling for the return of former Governor Siminalayi Fubara, chanted slogans such as "Take It Back" and "Bring Back Governor Sim," referring to the embattled former governor as a symbol of leadership they believe can restore the state's development.

The protest, which had been widely discussed on social media and mobilized by local activist groups, sought to voice dissatisfaction with the current state of governance under Governor Nyesom Wike's administration. Demonstrators expressed frustration with the perceived lack of development, high levels of insecurity, and economic hardship under the current regime, as well as a desire for a return to the perceived progress made during Fubara's tenure.

As residents began to assemble on Aba Road in the early hours of the morning, the police swiftly moved in, using teargas to disperse the crowd. Teargas canisters filled the air, sending protesters fleeing from the area in search of safety. Despite the chaos, many continued to voice their support for the movement, holding placards and chanting loudly.

Witnesses on the scene described the atmosphere as tense but determined, with many residents expressing their discontent at the government's failure to address the issues facing Port Harcourt and the wider Rivers State. "We want Governor Sim back because under his leadership, things were better. We're tired of the promises that never get fulfilled," one protester told reporters.

The police response to the protest has drawn mixed reactions, with some condemning the use of force to suppress peaceful assembly, while others have defended the actions of law enforcement, citing the need to maintain public order and prevent potential unrest.

The "Take It Back" and "Bring Back Governor Sim" movement has been gaining momentum in Port Harcourt, with local social media platforms and community groups actively rallying residents to join in the demonstration. Proponents argue that Fubara's leadership was characterized by greater infrastructural development, security improvements, and job creation, and they believe his return to power could reverse the perceived decline of the state in recent years.

Governor Nyesom Wike has yet to comment publicly on the protests or the calls for the return of Fubara. Meanwhile, the Rivers State police have reiterated their stance on maintaining law and order, urging residents to refrain from engaging in unlawful protests and to seek proper channels for their grievances.

As tensions continue to rise in Port Harcourt, all eyes are on the government's response to the growing unrest, and whether the calls for a change in leadership will spark broader movements across the state. With residents demanding action, it remains to be seen how the situation will evolve in the coming days.