Panic in Rivers as gunmen assassinate traditional ruler during monarchs’ meeting

A traditional ruler, Chief Ferdinand Dabiri, has been shot dead by suspected cultists during a meeting of local chiefs in Obelle, Emohua Local Government Area of Rivers State.

Dabiri, who also served as Vice Chairman of the Obelle Council of Chiefs, was reportedly gunned down when armed assailants stormed the venue of the meeting in Omuwoka village on Saturday evening.

According to a report by Leadership, the violent attack triggered panic, causing fellow chiefs and residents to flee for their lives. As of Saturday night, some community members had reportedly deserted the area for fear of further violence.

Speaking with reporters, the deceased’s second son, Joseph Dabiri, recounted the moment he heard of his father’s murder.

“I heard that a guy came with gun while my father was in a meeting at Omuwoka village in Obelle, shot at him twice and fled on Saturday evening,” he said.

Joseph added that the matter had been formally reported to the Rumuji Divisional Police Headquarters and called for swift justice.

As of press time, the Rivers State Police Command had yet to issue an official statement on the killing.

In a separate but related incident, operatives from the Azikiwe Division and the Octopus Tactical Unit disrupted a violent clash between rival cult groups in the Diobu area of Port Harcourt.

Reports indicate that one group was en route to a university campus in the city to launch an attack when they encountered their rivals along Azikiwe Street/Opobo Lane. A gun battle ensued, sending pedestrians and business owners scrambling for cover, with some shops hastily closing down.

A source said the quick intervention by the Azikiwe Police and the Octopus Strike Force led to the arrest of three suspected cultists.

Confirming the incident, State Police Public Relations Officer Grace Iringe-Koko said:

“Yes I can confirm the incident. Three suspects were arrested. One English made revolver pistol, one live ammunition and three expended ammunition were recovered in the bag of the suspects.”
She noted that investigations are ongoing to apprehend other fleeing members of the cult groups.