Nigeria: Further protests possible across Rivers State through at least late June

Further protests are possible across Rivers State, including Port Harcourt, through at least late June amid political tensions. Activists gathered across the state as the tenure of the 23 Local Government Areas (LGAs) chairmen expired on June 17. Despite warnings from the state governor, some chairmen have refused to leave their office, citing a controversial law reportedly enabling them to stay in office for a further six-month period. While security forces have been deployed in front of LGA secretariats, protesters gathered in multiple locations on June 17-18, including in front of Port Harcourt and Obio Akpor offices. There have been reports of violence across the state, including warning shots from security forces on June 18 in Port Harcourt. One protester has reportedly been killed, and others injured amid the clashes.

Likely gathering locations include the LGA offices of Rivers State and other government institutions. Officials will likely deploy additional security forces to prevent further protests. Confrontations between protesters, the security forces, and rival activists are possible. Should unrest occur, officials could impose restrictions such as curfews or telecommunications restrictions.