A young man identified as Endwell Awunze was killed by armed men suspected to be cultists in Ula-Pata-Ahoada, Ahoada Local Government Area of Rivers State. The ongoing leadership crisis in the local government has exacerbated tensions and unrest in the region.
Awunze, known as a “whistleblower” against cultism and violent crimes in Okporowo community, Ahoada East LGA, was reportedly tracked and killed by cultists. According to sources, the victim had just left a protest venue opposite the Ahoada East Council, where demonstrators were protesting against the tenure elongation of the Local Government Chairman.
Around 7 p.m., Awunze boarded a motorcycle, and while navigating Ula-Pata road, three gunmen who had laid an ambush opened fire on him. Awunze died instantly, while the motorbike driver sustained gunshot injuries and was rushed to a hospital for treatment.
As of 7 a.m. on Wednesday, Awunze’s body remained at the crime scene. It was also noted that Awunze was an oil pipeline surveillance worker before his death.
The Rivers State Police Command has yet to respond to this development at the time of filing this report.
The Centre for Basic Rights Protection and Accountability Campaign, a human rights organization, has expressed concern over the negative impacts of the political crisis on the state’s residents. National Coordinator Comrade Prince Wiro commented on the incident, saying, “I am worried that cultists and other criminal elements may take advantage of the chaotic situation in the state to begin to perpetrate evil. I urge the political gladiators in the state to carry out their activities within the confines of the law as we hear that some mischievous politicians are recruiting all manner of violent personalities to achieve their aim.”
Wiro also called on the police and other relevant security agencies to double their efforts in addressing the security challenges arising from the political crisis. “The current turmoil provides a breeding ground for criminal activities. It is imperative that law enforcement agencies intensify their operations to prevent further violence and ensure the safety of all residents,” he added.