Rivers State Crisis: President Jonathan Orders Withdrawal Of JTF Soldiers, Armored Cars, From Rivers Governor's Lodge

As the political chaos in Rivers State edges towards the cliff, about 30 soldiers guarding the Governor's lodge have been summarily withdrawn by the Brigade Commander in charge of the Joint Task Force (JTF) in Port Harcourt at the orders of President Goodluck Jonathan.

SaharaReporters also learnt that the soldiers took with them two Armored Personnel Cars (APC) usually stationed at Government House.

A military source told our correspondent that the removal of the soldiers was ordered from Abuja. He warned that things might get bloodier in the state capital with the JTF gone from Government House leaving the security of the governor and his aides in the hands of a few police officers and State Security Services agents.

An eyewitness said a new detachment of soldiers came briefly to inspect a third APC that seems disabled.

Saharareporters could not confirm further reports that the soldiers that were removed are being detained and interrogated at the barracks.

President Jonathan is currently on a state visit to China.

Culled from SaharaReporters