NOA Calls for Urgent Security Action to forestall Ethnic tensions in Rivers State

The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has raised fresh concern over ethnic tensions in parts of Rivers State, calling on security agencies to step up efforts to restore calm and protect lives.

Speaking with journalists, the Rivers State Coordinator of the agency, Edward Banigo, urged security forces to respond decisively to all forms of ethnic-based attacks, warning that continued violence threatens peace and social cohesion in the state.

Banigo stressed that the responsibility for ending the unrest does not rest on security agencies alone. He appealed directly to ethnic leaders, urging them to rein in their followers and discourage acts capable of inflaming tensions.

According to him, dialogue remains the most effective path to resolving grievances, noting that violence only deepens divisions and prolongs suffering within communities.

Amid the renewed hostilities, the NOA coordinator also advised residents to remain vigilant and security-conscious, encouraging citizens to report suspicious activities and cooperate with security agencies.

Community Secretary Killed in Igwuruta Attack

The comments of the NOA coordinator follows the killing of Samuel Nchelem, the Secretary of the Omuolu family in Omunwei, Igwuruta community of Ikwerre Local Government, by youths believed to be strangers in the community.

The attack allegedly followed the arrest of two suspected motorcycle thieves who were said to have stolen a motorcycle belonging to one of the attackers and were brought into the Omuolu community.

Confirming the incident, the Community Development Committee Chairman of Igwuruta, Lucky Matthew, said Nchelem was stabbed to death while accompanying members of the local vigilante group, OSPAC, to hand over the suspects to the Igwuruta Police Station. Matthew said the attackers arrived on about 40 motorcycles, intercepted their vehicle, and launched a violent assault.

He added that a member of the vigilante group also sustained serious machete injuries.

Ikwerre Council Bans Okada Operations

Reacting to the killing, the Chairman of Ikwerre Local Government Area, Charles Wobodo, announced an immediate ban on commercial motorcycle operations, popularly known as okada, in Igwuruta.

Speaking during a condolence visit to the victim’s family in Omunwei, Wobodo said the decision was aimed at restoring peace, protecting lives and property, and tackling persistent security challenges in the area.

He assured residents that those responsible for the killing of the youth leader would be brought to justice and urged security agencies, as well as members of OSPAC, to ensure strict enforcement of the ban.

Trader Killed in Oil Mill Market Dispute

In a separate development, the killing of a trader at the Fruit Market in Oil Mill Market, in the Rumuokwurusi community of Obio-Akpor Local Government of Rivers State, sparked tension in the area.

The Rivers State Police Command confirmed the arrest of a wheelbarrow pusher over the incident. Police spokesperson, Grace Iringe-Koko, said in a statement that the victim, Higightor Wenem, a 30-year-old trader from Benue State, was allegedly stabbed with a dagger during an argument over space obstruction at the market.

The suspect, identified as Zakara Afaaruwu, was said to have attacked the victim during the dispute. According to the police, Wenem was confirmed dead at the Military Hospital Port Harcourt and his corpse deposited at the morgue for an autopsy.

The incident triggered panic and tension between members of the Hausa and Benue communities in the area, with Iringe-Koko saying the timely arrival of police operatives prevented a major breakdown of law and order, adding that the wheelbarrow pusher remains in custody while investigations continue.

Arewa Leaders Appeal for Calm

In response to the incidents involving northern residents, leaders of the Arewa Community in Rivers State have called for restraint.

The leader of Islamic clerics in the state, Imam Haliru Iman, said the clash in Igwuruta, Ikwerre Local Government Area, reportedly began after northern commercial motorcycle operators accused some youths of stealing their motorcycles. He said the confrontation escalated, resulting in the death of a youth.

While commending security agencies and community leaders for their prompt interventions, Imam Haliru stressed that peaceful coexistence must remain the guiding principle for all residents living in the state regardless of ethnic or religious background.

Growing Calls for Vigilance and Dialogue

With multiple incidents unfolding within days, authorities and community leaders continue to urge residents to remain calm, cooperate with security agencies, and avoid actions capable of escalating tensions. The National Orientation Agency says sustained engagement, responsible leadership, and swift security intervention are critical to preserving peace in Rivers State.