Two persons have been reported killed, following increasing tension in Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni local government area of Rivers state over a community dispute.
An online report stated that a meeting was disrupted on Tuesday after armed security personnel and members of the local vigilante group, OSPAC, allegedly stormed the venue and opened fire. Two youths were reportedly killed in the incident.
The reports further claim that the shootings triggered a reprisal, during which the Omoku OSPAC zonal commander, Ozomela Stephen Nwaocha and several other people were killed.
Videos circulating on social media showed several bodies. Three of the victims shown in the videos are women. Residents also reported that many businesses and markets were forced to shut down while some people fled to Obrikom, a neighbouring community, for safety.
Meanwhile, the Public Relations Officer of OSPAC in Rivers state, Nkem Godknows, said the gunmen attacked the Omoku OSPAC commander while he was sitting with his sister and her friend near his residence. He said the incident happened around 5pm on Tuesday.
He also confirmed that three other women who were hit by bullets died at the scene, while two other victims sustained gunshot wounds and they are currently receiving treatment at the hospital.
Reacting to the development, the Rivers state Police command describes the incident as a setback to the relative peace enjoyed in the state.
Command’s spokesperson, ASP Blessing Agabe, said the command strongly condemn the attack and reiterated its commitment to ensuring that those responsible are brought to justice. He also appealed to members of the public to provide credible information that could assist in ongoing investigations.