YEAC-Nigeria condemns attack on Bangha monarch, demands investigation and enhanced security for traditional institutions in Rivers State.
A non-governmental organisation, Youths and Environmental Advocacy Centre (YEAC-Nigeria), has condemned the assassination attempt on a traditional ruler in Ogoniland, Suanu T.Y. Baridam, describing it as a grave threat to peace and traditional authority in Rivers State.
The monarch, a first-class king and traditional ruler of Bangha in Khana Local Government Area, was reportedly attacked by gunmen on Sunday along the Ogoni axis of the East–West Road.
Ad space
As at the time of filing this report, the Rivers State Police Command had yet to issue an official statement on the incident.
In a statement issued Sunday, the Executive Director of YEAC-Nigeria, Fyneface Dumnamene, said the attack went beyond the individual monarch and constituted a direct threat to the Bangha Kingdom and the wider Niger Delta region.
According to him, the assassination attempt represents an affront to the traditional institution in Rivers State and a destabilising act capable of undermining peace in Ogoniland.
The group demanded a thorough and transparent investigation into the incident and called on the Rivers State Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga Adepoju, to ensure that the perpetrators are identified and brought to justice.
YEAC-Nigeria also urged Siminalayi Fubara to facilitate adequate security for the monarch upon his recovery and to strengthen protection for traditional rulers and residents across the state.
The organisation stressed that safeguarding traditional institutions remains critical to maintaining stability, community cohesion and respect for cultural heritage in Rivers State.
Comments