Nigeria: Political-related unrest reported in Port Harcourt May 18

Event

Political activists gathered in the vicinity of the All Progressives Congress (APC) party's Rivers State secretariat building the morning of May 18, causing traffic gridlock along Woji Road. Police forces opened fire to disperse protesters. No casualties have been recorded. Participants were reportedly denouncing the nomination of an APC candidate for the upcoming 2023 Nigerian gubernatorial elections. It remains unclear whether the protest is still ongoing.

Security services will likely maintain a significantly increased presence in the area in the coming hours. Further related protests remain possible in the coming days. Localized transport disruptions are likely in the vicinity of all associated gatherings.

Advice

Avoid all protests and plan for localized transport disruptions. Exercise caution in the affected areas due to the potential for further clashes. Heed the directives of the authorities.