At least four people were shot on Wednesday when suspected members of the Obio/Akpor Security Planning and Advisory Committee (OSPAC) attacked a peaceful gathering of youths in Elele, Ikwerre Local Government Area. The youths, believed to be supporters of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, had assembled at a roundabout to show solidarity with the governor when gunmen stormed the area and opened fire.
Eyewitnesses reported that the attackers were led by a senior vigilante commander known as “Fucking Naira,” who allegedly shot at least 14 people. The victims, who sustained multiple gunshot wounds, were rushed to Madonna University Hospital in Elele for urgent treatment.
The attack occurred amid escalating political tensions in Rivers State, following a 48-hour ultimatum issued by the Martin Amaewhule-led State Assembly requiring Governor Fubara to re-present the 2025 Appropriation Bill before the March 5 deadline.
According to the Rivers State Police Command spokesperson, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, the incident took place as a patrol team from the Elele Division, led by the Divisional Police Officer, arrived at Elele Roundabout to disperse an unlawful assembly. An unidentified assailant, reportedly hiding nearby, opened fire during the engagement. Although some attackers managed to flee, one suspect was apprehended, and a single-barrel gun was recovered from him. The arrested suspect will be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for further investigation.
Authorities have confirmed that investigations are ongoing, and a manhunt is underway to track down the remaining suspects involved in the attack.
