Nigeria: Increased security likely in Rivers State through at least early October following reports of violence amid Oct. 5 local elections /update 1

Officials will likely maintain a heightened security posture in Rivers State through at least early October following reports of sporadic violence amid local elections held Oct. 5. Two explosions occurred in Port Harcourt on Oct. 5, with the first blast reported at the All Progressives Congress (APC) Secretariat on Aba Road at around 03:00. The blast caused significant property damage and set fire to the security building. The second explosion occurred at the Obio/Akpor Local Government Secretariat. Suspicious vehicles reportedly fled both scenes following the blasts. Authorities deployed to both sites and recovered an improvised bomb at the APC Secretariat. Additionally, sporadic gunfire was reported in the Wimpy area of Port Harcourt, as well as police officers using tear gas at some local voting stations. There have been no immediate reports of any associated casualties nor information released about those responsible for the blasts or gunfire.

The Action Peoples Party (APP) secured 22 out of 23 chairmanship positions in the local elections, which may fuel protest activity among supporters of other parties who are dissatisfied with the results. While no groups immediately announced plans for related demonstrations, potential rally sites include prominent government buildings, public squares, and thoroughfares. Well-attended demonstrations could attract thousands of participants.

Police will likely deploy to the sites of any demonstrations that materialize. Further isolated security incidents, including small-scale explosions, cannot be ruled out. Associated localized transport and business disruptions are likely.