Gunmen have attacked the palace of the traditional ruler of Finima Community in Bonny Local Government Area of Rivers State, leaving several residents injured and causing damage to property.
The incident occurred in the early hours of Saturday when a disagreement over cultural rites and masquerade displays reportedly escalated into violence.
The Amadabo of Finima Community, His Royal Highness Dagogo Brown, narrowly escaped the attack after the gunmen invaded a cultural masquerade display and opened fire around his palace. Several residents were reportedly injured by gunshots and machete cuts, although no death was recorded.
The Rivers State Police Command confirmed the incident on Monday through its spokesperson, ASP Blessing Agabe.
Agabe said normalcy had been restored to the community and that an investigation had commenced to identify those behind the attack.
“Investigation is ongoing into the matter, while one of the gang members has been arrested,” she said.
According to the police spokesperson, the arrested suspect was providing information that could assist investigators in tracking down other members of the group, who remained at large.
Following the attack, police operatives were deployed to the community to restore order and maintain security.
The Chairman of Bonny Local Government Council, Abinye Pepple, condemned the violence and destruction of property, calling for an impartial investigation into the incident.
“The council assures that anyone involved in this dastardly act will face justice, no matter their position or status,” Pepple said.
He appealed to residents who fled the community during the violence to return home and remain calm, vigilant and law-abiding.
Pepple also assured residents that security personnel had been deployed to protect lives and property and prevent further unrest.