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Fubara Charges Security Agencies To Smoke Out Killers Of Ahoada DPO …Says Rivers not a home for criminals …IGP, CP, Others Condemn DPO’s Murder
Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubari has charged security agencies in the state to smoke out the killers of late SP Bako Angbashim , the Ahoada Divisional Police Officer, DPO, who was brutality murdered by some criminals at Ahoada two days ago
He specifically tasked the security agencies to get the prime suspect (Gift Okpara Okpolowu) at all cost as a clear statement that the state is not a safe haven for criminals.
Briefing the Press shortly after an Emergency Security Council Meeting in Government House, Port Harcourt yesterday the Governor, who described the incident as unfortunate and barbaric, sympathised with the Nigerian Police and the family of the slain officer, and vowed to make Rivers State unsafe for criminal activities.
Sir Fubara, who expressed confidence in the security agencies to apprehend the culprits, said a bounty has been placed on them, while pointing out that Rivers State has never been a safe haven for criminals”
Governor Fubara said “it is really unfortunate that in our state where we are doing everything to reduce crime rate, a group of miscreants portray the state as being unsafe, we honestly feel very sad over this incident. As a government we will not rest until whoever is responsible for this act is brought to book.”
”We have gone further to show our commitment in this issue by placing a bounty on the criminals and also suspended the traditional ruler of that locality. We will do everything on our part to ensure we get to the end of this matter, we must get him at all cost. Rivers state has never and will not be a home of criminality. I believe that the caliber of men that are heading the security unit of the state will do everything within their powers to settle these matters.”
Those who attended the Emergency Security Meeting include, Brig. Gen. E. U. Effiong, 6 Division Garrison Commander Nigerian Army; Group Captain A. H. Idris, Commander 115, Special Operation Group; Commodore D.O.C. Igbo, Commander NNS, Pathfinder; CP Polycap Emeka Nwonyi, Rivers State Commissioner of Police; the Director of the Department of State Services, Rivers State Command and Commandant Basil Igwebueze, NSCDC Commandant, Rivers State Command.
Meanwhile, the Acting Inspector-General of Police, Ag. IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has condemned the gruesome murder of SP Bako Angbashim, who was, at the time of his passing away the Divisional Police Officer, Ahoada Division in Rivers State.
The acting Inspector made this condemnation in a statement by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi.
The statement said the slain DPO was humiliated, gruesomely murdered, and mutilated by some hardened armed criminals in Ahoada area of Rivers State on Friday, 8th September, 2023, while on operation in the area.
The IGP, therefore, ordered immediate investigation, arrest, and prosecution of all the culprits that carried out the heinous and barbaric act; adding that such an act is not only an affront on our national status but also a reflection of a lack of patriotism and gross illegality.
The IGP, while emphasizing unequivocally that such nefarious acts against any operative in Nigeria, would not be taken with levity as all the perpetrators will be caused to face the full wrath of the law.
He extended his deepest condolences to the grieving family, dedicated colleagues and friends of the deceased Police officer, urging them to embody his dedication, humility, and selflessness.
Also, the Rivers State Commissioner of Police, CP Nwonyi Emeka, described the murder as very unfortunate, stressing that the late DPO displayed exemplary courage during a mission to combat criminal activities in the Odumude Area of Ahoada East Local Government Area in Rivers State.
“SP Bako Angbashim, alongside his dedicated team, embarked on a raid of known criminal black spots in the region. The operation led to a pursuit of criminals from their concealed hideouts. Tragically, as they were returning from this operation, they were ambushed by a significant number of criminals who opened fire on the brave officers.
“In the face of this adversity, SP Bako Angbashim valiantly held his ground, while his men, depleted of ammunition, made a tactical retreat. Regrettably, during this engagement, SP Bako Angbashim sustained fatal injuries, and one of his informants was also injured, currently receiving medical care for a gunshot wound”, he said.
He stressed thar the criminals seized the body of SP Bako Angbashim, forcing the remaining officers to return to their base for reinforcement.
He further stated that efforts were made to rescue and recover the DPO’s body, with assistance sought from the Army teams stationed at FOB Base Etraco.
“However, the operation proved challenging due to the extremely dark conditions within the dense bush.
“The Rivers State Commissioner of Police has expressed deep determination to bring the perpetrators of this heinous act to justice. An extensive investigation is currently underway to uncover the circumstances surrounding this tragic event.
“Our thoughts and condolences go out to the family of SP Bako Angbashim and all those affected by this distressing incident”, the CP stated.
Meanwhile, the people of Ekpeye Ethnic Nationality under the aegis of Uzugbani Ekpeye, the Apex Socio Cultural Organisation in Ekpeye land have condemned in its entirety the gruesome murder of SP Angbashim.
In a statement signed by its president General, Dr Ukechukwu Nyemenim, and Publicity Secretary, Comrade Ogboka Chris Umeda, the organisation described the news of the gruesome murder of the gallant police officer as more terrifying when it was gathered that the combatant police officer died in line of official duty.
“The National Executive Council of Uzugbani Ekpeye had in it’s quest to solve the growing insecurity in Ekpeye land, rallied support for the deployment of SP Bako from Bori to Ahoada Police Division which yielded fruits as the once deserted Ahoada town after 8pm came back alive following the successes recorded as a result of SP Bako’s resumption to duty at Ahoada Police Division.
“Uzugbani Ekpeye is however, shocked and amazed at the inhumane treatment and dismemberment given to the body of the selfless senior police officer who brought out his all to bring lasting peace to Ekpeye land noting that Ekpeye is now tagged a land soiled with human blood where crime thrive unchallenged.
“Uzugbani Ekpeye will however, shock nay sayers as it will do everything humanly possible to collaborate with government and security agencies in bringing the culprits to book as Ekpeye land cannot be a den of armed robbers and there shall be no peace for those that caused Ekpeye this pain.
“Ekpeye People condole with the immediate family, the Nigerian Police Force, Rivers State Government and the Federal Government over this unfortunate incident while also praying for the repose of the departed soul.
“Uzugbani Ekpeye, Ekpeye People’s General Assembly is therefore, calling on residents and people of Ekpeye to remain calm and give useful information that could lead to possible arrest of the killers” the statement added.
The Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Vice Admiral Ibok Ete Ekwe Ibas (rtd), has charged the new Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Prof Ibibia Lucky Worika to bring his wealth of experience to bear in governance of the State.
Vice Admiral Ibas (rtd) gave the charge shortly after swearing in the new SSG at the executive chambers of Government House on Wednesday night.
The Administrator who congratulated Prof Worika on his appointment said the choice was not merely an administrative decision but a statement of intent.
Vice Admiral Ibas (rtd) explained that the new SSG has an unparallel expertise in law, policy and international governance, which align perfectly with the mission to restore law, order, integrity and public trust in Rivers State.
He said: “To our new SSG, the task ahead is onerous, but your track record leaves no doubt in our minds that you will prove your mettle. Rivers State needs your intellect, grit and unweaving dedication. Together, we will write a new chapter of progress for this great state.
“Prof Worika’s role will be critical in driving this vision, ensuring that every policy, every decision and every action is in consonance with this administration’s mandate to restore law and order, stabilize the polity and to create the necessary conditions for the restoration of democratic institutions and representations.”
Vice Admiral Ibas (rtd) pointed to his maiden address to Rivers people wherein he emphasised that his administration will be committed to delivering an effective governance that is anchored on transparency, accountability and service.
He therefore, enjoined the new SSG to brace up to the demands of his office, and offer his best service as required while also working cooperatively with civil servants.
Vice Admiral Ibas (rtd) said: “You have no time to settle down. You must roll up your sleeves and get to work with the team.
“Our civil servants with whom we will work closely to run this administration are critical stakeholders and we must work with them to ensure that the state continues to function effectively during this administration.
“To the Permanent Secretaries and civil servants as a whole, once more I will ask your kind cooperation and support as we work to achieve our objectives at this time,” he added.
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I Am One Of You, Sole Administrator Tells Rivers People …Warns Against Violence, Crude Oil Sabotage
The Sole Administrator of Rivers State, Retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas (rtd), has assured residents that he is not in the State as a partisan actor or political competitor but as a stabilising force to restore governance and order.
In a state broadcast yesterday, Ibas, who assumed duty at Government House, Port Harcourt, emphasised his commitment to protecting civil liberties and ensuring the safety of all citizens.
However, he issued a stern warning against crude oil sabotage and violence, urging residents to resist any temptation to return to past hostilities.
“For decades, I have dedicated my life to the service of our great nation—first as the 20th indigenous Chief of Naval Staff and later as Nigeria’s High Commissioner to Ghana. I answered this call out of the need for peace in Nigeria, and most importantly, in Rivers State,” Ibas stated.
Describing the prolonged political impasse as a major setback to governance and democracy, he acknowledged the hardships faced by families and businesses due to the prevailing uncertainty.
“As a son of the Niger Delta, I am one of you. I feel the weight of this crisis on families, businesses, and the future of our people,” he said.
Ibas commended President Bola Tinubu’s decisive action in declaring a state of emergency in Rivers State, stressing that it was a necessary move to restore stability and revive economic activities.
“My mandate is clear: restore law and order, ensure stability, and create an enabling environment for economic growth. But this mission requires collective support from all stakeholders, regardless of political affiliation or ethnicity,” he stated.
He discouraged attacks on oil infrastructure, reminding residents of the devastating environmental and economic consequences of such actions.
“The Niger Delta has moved beyond the destruction of oil facilities. We must resist the temptation to return to those ugly days,” he cautioned.
While pledging to uphold civil liberties and the rule of law, the Sole Administrator warned that lawlessness and violence would not be tolerated.
“We will not act arbitrarily, but we will not hesitate to deal decisively with anyone who threatens the peace and stability of Rivers State,” he declared.
Ibas revealed that he had concluded a State Security Council meeting where strategic measures were outlined to de-escalate tensions and prevent further conflict.
Expressing gratitude to President Tinubu for entrusting him with the responsibility, he also acknowledged the National Assembly for approving the emergency declaration.
“I will work closely with the national leadership under the guidance of the President. I am optimistic that Rivers State will emerge stronger and greater,” he concluded.
The Federal Capital Territory Emergency Management Department has confirmed that 10 persons have died in the truck explosion that occurred near Karu bridge, along the Abuja-Keffi Expressway, on Wednesday.
The FEMD’s Head of Public Affairs, Nkechi Isa, confirmed the numbers in a statement, yesterday.
The Acting Director General of the Emergency Department, Abdulrahman Mohammed, had earlier confirmed that eight persons had died as of yesterday morning, with five confirmed dead on the scene, and four others burnt beyond recognition.
““Five people were taken dead from the scene yesterday (Wednesday). Out of the people that were injured, one died, making six. Then this morning (yesterday), when I asked my people to go round, they discovered that two had already died again, making eight. Four of them from yesterday were burnt beyond recognition.”, he explained.
However, in her statement, Isa said the Head, Forecasting Response and Mitigation of FEMD, Mr Mark Nyam, said eight bodies were deposited at the Karu Hospital Morgue, one body at the Asokoro Distinct Hospital Morgue while another body was deposited at the National Hospital.
He added that some victims had been referred to the Gwagwalada Teaching Hospital, Federal Medical Centre, Keffi, and Cedercrest Hospital Abuja for proper care.
Part of the statement reads, “The FCT Emergency Management Department FEMD can confirm that 10 persons lost their lives to the truck explosion that occurred at Karu bridge along Abuja / Keffi expressway.
“The Head Forecasting Response and Mitigation of FEMD, Mr Mark Nyam said eight bodies were deposited at the Karu Hospital Morgue, one body at the Asokoro Distinct Hospital Morgue while another body was deposited at the National Hospital.”
He informed that over 30 persons suffered various degrees of burns.
“Some of the victims have been referred to Gwagwalada Teaching Hospital, Federal Medical Centre,Keffi and Cedercrest Hospital Abuja for proper care,” he said.
Isa also stated that no fewer than 10 vehicles were burnt during the incident, adding that the FEMD boss after a visit to the incident scene, appealed to motorists to observe traffic rules and regulations.
He also cautioned against reckless driving, dangerous overtaking and poor maintenance of vehicles, while urging FCT residents to always use the 112 emergency toll free number in the event of an emergency.
Meanwhile, barely 24 hours after the incident, another fertiliser-laden truck has collapsed on the same spot.
The Tide learnt that the incidence occurred at about 3:54pm yesterday.
The Head of Public Affairs of the FCT Emergency Management Department, Nkechi Isa, confirmed the accident in a statement, stating that the truck collided with a Hijet and a dump truck, adding that no life was lost.
She cautioned road users to drive with caution as the Federal Road Safety Corps was making efforts to tow away the affected vehicles, to avoid traffic built up.
“Another accident has occurred under Karu bridge along the Abuja-Keffi Expressway. Thankfully, no life was lost to the incident. Our Search and Rescue say the accident occurred when a truck laden with fertilizer ran into a Hijet and a dump truck also known as tipper.
“Motorists are advised to drive with caution as the Federal Road Safety Corps is taking steps to tow away the affected vehicles in order to avoid traffic built up,” the statement read.
Meanwhile, several videos showed some persons trying to clear the fertiliser bags from the fallen truck to ease traffic.