Tension has continued to rise in Rivers State following fresh controversy surrounding Winnie Miller, the young woman who recently reported being assaulted after exposing the poor condition of a public secondary school in Ahoada West Local Government Area.
Miller had earlier taken to social media to highlight the deteriorating state of Community Secondary School in the area.
Her post, which included photographs of the school’s damaged facilities and learning environment, quickly gained attention online and sparked public outrage from many Nigerians who expressed concern about the condition of the institution.
Shortly after the post went viral, Miller alleged that she was physically assaulted during an altercation linked to the incident.
The claim generated widespread condemnation, with several individuals and advocacy groups calling for authorities to investigate the matter.
However, the situation took a new turn after Miller revealed that N2.5 million had allegedly been transferred into her bank account by the Chairman of Ahoada West Local Government Area, Hon. Eugene Cheta Epelle.
In a statement posted on her Facebook page, Miller said the money was sent without her consent and that there had been no prior agreement between her and the council chairman regarding any form of payment or compensation.
She described the transfer as an attempt to influence her and insisted she would not accept it.
Screenshots circulating online appear to show a bank credit alert indicating that the amount was deposited from an account reportedly linked to the council chairman.
Miller also shared another screenshot showing an attempt to return the full amount to the sender.
According to her, she has been trying to refund the money but has faced difficulties completing the transaction through her bank.
One of the images she posted reportedly shows a pending transfer labeled “refund of bribe.”
Miller maintained that her actions were motivated by a desire for accountability and improved conditions for students, not personal financial gain.
“I cannot be bribed. What I want is simple, let justice and accountability take their proper course,” she wrote.
The development has continued to draw strong reactions across social media platforms.
While many Nigerians have commended Miller for rejecting the money and standing by her claims, others are demanding a full investigation into both the alleged assault and the circumstances surrounding the payment.
As public debate intensifies, calls are growing for relevant authorities to thoroughly investigate the allegations and ensure that due process is followed in resolving the matter.
