A violent clash between supporters of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, and Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, escalated into gunfire, leaving four people seriously injured.
The incident took place around 7 a.m. on Wednesday at the Elele Roundabout in Ikwerre Local Government Area of Rivers State.
Confirming the attack, the Rivers State Police Command stated that officers from the Elele Division, led by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO), were dispatched after receiving intelligence about a gathering of suspected hoodlums at the location.
Police spokesperson Grace Iringe-Koko explained that as officers attempted to address the situation, an unknown gunman hiding nearby suddenly opened fire.
The attack left four individuals with gunshot wounds before the assailants fled the scene.
“At the time of reporting, four victims had sustained gunshot injuries,” Iringe-Koko said.
“However, one suspect was apprehended, and a single-barrel gun was recovered from him. He is now in custody.”
The injured victims were quickly taken to hospitals in Elele for medical care, while authorities launched a manhunt for the fleeing suspects. Some of those involved are believed to have ties to the local vigilante group, OSPAC.
The police confirmed that the arrested suspect and the seized firearm would be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for further inquiries.
Meanwhile, the Rivers State Police Commissioner, CP Olugbenga Adepoju, urged residents to remain calm and cooperate with law enforcement by providing any relevant information.
“The safety and security of all citizens remain our priority. We are committed to ensuring that those responsible for this violence are apprehended and prosecuted,” Iringe-Koko assured, adding that updates would be provided as the investigation progresses.
