Tension in Rivers as Gunmen Attack Traditional Ruler

Tension in Rivers as Gunmen Attack Traditional Ruler
Survives Second Assassination Attempt
Police Launch Manhunt

The King of the Bangha Kingdom in Khana Local Government Area of Rivers State, His Royal Majesty Suanu Timothy Baridam, has survived a gun attack after being shot while travelling on Sunday.

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Eko Hot Blog reports that the monarch was reportedly shot in the leg as he returned from an engagement in Okwale community. Sources said the attack occurred along the stretch between Taabaa Junction and Sogho when armed men attempted to stop his vehicle.

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It was gathered that the driver refused to halt, prompting the attackers to open fire. Both the king and his driver sustained gunshot injuries during the incident.

The traditional ruler is currently receiving medical treatment at an undisclosed hospital in Port Harcourt, the state capital.

Although the motive behind the attack remains unclear, initial reports suggested the assailants may have intended to assassinate the monarch. The Guardian also reported that this was the second known attempt on King Baridam’s life in recent times.

Reacting to the incident, the Chairman of Khana Local Government Area, Mr Thomas Bariere, condemned the attack and dismissed claims that it was linked to gang-related violence. He described it as a deliberate attempt to instil fear and disrupt peace and economic activities in the area.

Tension in Rivers as Gunmen Attack Traditional Ruler

“Their intention is to intimidate people and create the impression that there is a crisis in Khana, which could scare away businesses and investors,” Bariere said. “We have seen this pattern before and we will not allow it to succeed.”

He assured residents that the local council would not tolerate attacks on lives and property, pledging that those responsible would be identified and prosecuted.

The Youth and Environmental Advocacy Centre also called for a thorough investigation into the attack. Its Executive Director, Mr Fyneface Dumnamene, described the shooting as an attack on the traditional institution and a threat to peace in Bangha Kingdom, Khana, Ogoniland and the wider Niger Delta region.

The group urged the Rivers State Government and the police to strengthen security around the monarch.

Confirming the incident, the Rivers State Police Command spokesperson, Grace Iringe-Koko, said the king sustained gunshot injuries but is responding to treatment. She added that investigations are ongoing.

Security agencies have since launched a manhunt for the gunmen, with all formations in the area said to be working together to bring the perpetrators to justice.