Gunmen, on Sunday, attacked the convoy of the king of the ancient Bangha Kingdom in Khana Local Government Area of Rivers State, His Royal Majesty Suanu Baridam, leaving the monarch and his driver with gunshot injuries.
The first-class traditional ruler was returning from an engagement in Okwale community when his vehicle was ambushed between Taabaa Junction and Sogho. The assailants reportedly attempted to stop the vehicle, but the driver refused to halt, prompting them to open fire.
The monarch was shot in the leg, while the driver also sustained gunshot wounds. Both were rushed to an undisclosed hospital in Port Harcourt, where they are currently receiving treatment.
Although the motive for the attack could not be confirmed as of press time, sources said the gunmen may have intended to assassinate the monarch. This is the second time King Baridam has survived an assassination attempt.
Reacting to the incident, the Chairman of Khana Local Government Area, Mr Thomas Bariere, condemned the attack, describing it as the handiwork of criminals seeking to instil fear in the area.
He said the incident was not linked to any gang-related crisis but part of attempts by miscreants to create an atmosphere of insecurity capable of discouraging business and investment in Khana. Their intention is to cause intimidation and create an atmosphere that looks like there is a crisis in Khana. We have faced this before and understand their tactics. Security agencies are on top of the situation,” Bariere said.
He assured residents and business owners that the council would no longer tolerate attacks on innocent citizens, adding that the perpetrators would be identified and brought to justice.
Confirming the incident, spokesperson of the Rivers State Police Command, Grace Iringe-Koko, said the monarch is responding to treatment, adding that investigations are ongoing.
“Yes, I confirm the attack. He sustained gunshot injuries. However, he is responding to treatment, and investigation is ongoing,” she stated.
