Gunmen Attack Governor Fubara’s Supporters in Rivers, Injure Several Amid Political Tensions – SpringNewsNG
BY OKAFOR JOSEPH
Gunmen attacked a group of youths in Elele, Ikwerre Local Government Area, Rivers State, on Wednesday, leaving several injured. The victims, believed to be supporters of Governor Siminalayi Fubara, had gathered at a roundabout to express solidarity with the governor when the assailants opened fire.
Eyewitnesses reported that the attackers, suspected to be members of the Obio/Akpor Security Planning and Advisory Committee (OSPAC), shot at least four people. The assault occurred amid heightened political tensions following a 48-hour ultimatum issued by the Martin Amaewhule-led State Assembly, demanding that Governor Fubara re-present the 2025 Appropriation Bill before the March 5 deadline.
Sources claim that the attack was led by a senior vigilante commander known as ‘Fucking Naira,’ who allegedly shot at least 14 individuals. The wounded victims sustained multiple gunshot injuries and were rushed to Madonna University Hospital in Elele for treatment. Reports suggest that the shooter is affiliated with a political faction and is a known supporter of a prominent politician in the state.
Meanwhile, the vigilante commander has been accused of making further threats against Fubara’s supporters.
Confirming the incident, Rivers State Police Command spokesperson SP Grace Iringe-Koko stated that four individuals sustained gunshot wounds. According to her, the violence erupted when a patrol team from the Elele Division, led by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO), arrived at the roundabout to disperse an unlawful gathering.
“While officers were engaging with the crowd, an unidentified gunman opened fire, injuring multiple people. As of this report, four injuries have been confirmed,” Iringe-Koko stated.
She added that one of the assailants was apprehended while attempting to flee, and a single-barrel gun was recovered from him.
“The injured victims were taken to various hospitals in Elele for immediate medical care,” she said, noting that a manhunt was underway to apprehend the remaining suspects.
Iringe-Koko further confirmed that some of the attackers were identified as members of OSPAC. She assured that the arrested suspect would be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for further investigation and that all perpetrators would be brought to justice.
