Tensions in Rivers State escalated on Wednesday as gunmen launched a violent attack on supporters of Governor Siminalayi Fubara in Elele, Ikwerre Local Government Area, leaving several people injured. The assailants, suspected to be members of the local vigilante group, Obio/Akpor Security Planning and Advisory Committee (OSPAC), stormed a peaceful gathering and opened fire on the crowd.
Eyewitnesses recounted that the youths had assembled at the Elele Roundabout to express solidarity with Governor Fubara when the attackers arrived and unleashed terror. The violence erupted against the backdrop of a political standoff in the state, particularly following a 48-hour ultimatum issued by the Martin Amaewhule-led State Assembly, demanding that Fubara re-present the 2025 Appropriation Bill before the March 5 deadline.
Sources disclosed that the attack was allegedly orchestrated by a senior vigilante commander identified as ‘Fucking Naira,’ who reportedly led his men in shooting indiscriminately at the gathering. At least 14 people sustained gunshot wounds, with some critically injured. The victims were rushed to Madonna University Hospital in Elele for urgent medical attention.
It was further gathered that the vigilante commander, known for his allegiance to a prominent political figure in the state, has openly threatened further attacks on Fubara’s supporters, raising fears of heightened political violence in Rivers.
The Rivers State Police Command confirmed the attack, stating that four individuals sustained gunshot wounds. According to the command’s spokesperson, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, officers from the Elele Division had arrived at the scene to disperse what they termed an “unlawful assembly” when an unknown assailant, hiding nearby, suddenly opened fire on the crowd.
“As of this report, only four individuals have been confirmed injured,” Iringe-Koko said, adding that security operatives apprehended one suspect while the others fled. A single-barrel gun was recovered from the arrested individual.
Iringe-Koko further disclosed that those responsible for the attack would be tracked down and brought to justice. The arrested suspect has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for further interrogation, while a manhunt is underway for the fleeing gunmen.
Amid the escalating political crisis in Rivers State, concerns are mounting over the potential for more violent confrontations. Governor Fubara’s supporters have vowed not to be intimidated, even as political tensions continue to boil in the state.
This latest attack underscores the volatile nature of the power struggle in Rivers, with fears that more unrest could follow as political factions battle for dominance. The unfolding situation remains one to watch, with stakeholders calling for urgent intervention to prevent further bloodshed.
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