Gunmen have shot the traditional ruler of the ancient Bangha Kingdom in Khana Local Government Area of Rivers State, His Royal Majesty Suanu Baridam, in what authorities believe was a renewed attempt to assassinate the first-class monarch.
The attack occurred on Sunday along the Taabaa Junction–Sogho axis of Khana LGA as the monarch was returning from an engagement in Okwale community. Sources said the assailants ambushed the king’s vehicle and attempted to force it to stop.
When the driver reportedly ignored their signal, the gunmen opened fire on the moving vehicle. King Baridam was hit in the leg, while the driver also sustained gunshot wounds.
The monarch narrowly escaped death and was rushed to an undisclosed hospital in Port Harcourt, where he is currently receiving treatment. This incident marks the second time the traditional ruler has survived an assassination attempt, heightening concerns over his safety and the deteriorating security situation in parts of the area.
Although the motive for the attack has not been officially established, early indications suggest the gunmen targeted the monarch deliberately.
The Chairman of Khana Local Government Area, Mr Thomas Bariere, condemned the attack, describing it as a criminal attempt to sow fear and destabilise the community.
Bariere said the incident was not linked to any gang or cult crisis but was the handiwork of criminal elements seeking to create panic and give the impression that Khana is unsafe for residents and investors.
“Their intention is to intimidate the people and create an atmosphere that looks like there is a crisis in Khana, which could scare away businesses and investors,” he said.
He assured residents that security agencies were already responding, adding that authorities were aware of the source of the attacks.
“We have seen this before and understand their tactics. All security formations in this environment are working together, and we are on top of the situation,” Bariere stated.
The council chairman warned that attacks on residents and traditional institutions would no longer be tolerated, promising that those responsible would be tracked down and prosecuted.
Meanwhile, the Youth and Environmental Advocacy Centre (YEAC) has demanded a thorough investigation into the shooting.
In a statement issued on Monday, the group’s Executive Director, Mr Fyneface Dumnamene, described the attack as a direct assault on the traditional institution in Rivers State and a threat to peace in Bangha Kingdom, Khana, Ogoni and the wider Niger Delta.
“This cowardly act is not just an attack on the person of the King but an affront to the traditional institution and a danger to regional peace,” the statement said.
YEAC called on the Rivers State Commissioner of Police to ensure that the perpetrators are brought to justice and urged Governor Siminalayi Fubara to provide adequate security for the monarch and the people of the area.
Confirming the incident, the spokesperson of the Rivers State Police Command, Grace Iringe-Koko, said a manhunt had been launched for the attackers.
“Yes, I confirm the attack. The monarch sustained gunshot injuries but is responding to treatment. Investigation is ongoing,” she said.
Police sources said efforts were underway to identify and arrest the assailants, as residents of Khana remain on edge following the brazen attack on the respected traditional ruler.