Suspected arsonists have reportedly attacked the Rivers State secretariat of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Port Harcourt, detonating explosives just hours before the scheduled Local Government elections.

The incident, which occurred early Saturday morning, is believed to have caused significant damage to the property, including the main gate, the security house, and parts of a nearby building.

Eyewitness reports and video footage circulating on social media suggest that dynamites were used in the attack.

The scene showed a chaotic aftermath, with the affected areas bearing signs of the explosion’s impact.

Although there were no immediate reports of casualties, the damage has raised concerns about the rising tension surrounding political activities in the state.

Chief Tony Okocha, the caretaker committee chairman of the APC in Rivers State, has accused supporters of Governor Siminalayi Fubara of being responsible for the attack.

In a statement, Okocha expressed his dismay over the event, claiming that “pro-Fubara civilian soldiers” had launched the attack with the intent of causing further damage.

Okocha recounted how a second attempt to set the building ablaze was narrowly avoided, thanks to the swift response of security personnel stationed at the gate.

“At the wee hours of Saturday, explosives were detonated at our office.

Thankfully, the second attempt to set it on fire was foiled as our security quickly put out the fire,” he said.

Tensions have been mounting between political parties in Rivers State ahead of the Local Government elections, with many concerned about the safety and security of the voting process.

While Governor Fubara’s camp has yet to issue an official statement in response to the accusations, this incident has only further heightened the political climate in the state.

Security forces are currently investigating the attack, and many are calling for calm and peaceful conduct as the elections draw closer.

This act of violence has once again highlighted the need for improved security measures around sensitive political periods, as the safety of citizens and property becomes a growing concern.