Tension in Rivers as Gunmen Kill OSPAC Commander, Three Others

Panic has gripped Omoku in Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area of Rivers State after gunmen suspected to be cultists reportedly killed the Omoku Zonal Commander of the Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area Security Planning and Advisory Committee (OSPAC), Ozomela Stephen Nwaocha, along with three women.

According to reports, the attackers struck on Monday evening along Oba Road while Nwaocha was relaxing near his residence with his sister and her friend. The attack claimed the lives of the commander and three women at the scene, while two other victims sustained gunshot injuries and were taken to hospital for treatment.

The incident reportedly caused widespread panic, forcing residents to flee and business owners to shut their shops over fears of further violence. Some community members expressed concern that the attack could signal a resurgence of the violent cult-related killings that once plagued the area before the establishment of OSPAC.

Confirming the incident, OSPAC’s Public Relations Officer, Comrade Nkem Godknows, said the attack occurred shortly after 5:00 p.m. He appealed to residents to remain calm, continue their normal activities, and avoid actions that could escalate tensions, expressing confidence that OSPAC and other security agencies would identify those responsible.

Godknows also appealed to the Rivers State Government and well-meaning Nigerians to provide greater support for OSPAC personnel, saying many members operate under difficult conditions with little or no financial assistance despite the risks involved in protecting their communities.

The Rivers State Police Command confirmed the attack and strongly condemned the killings. Police spokesperson ASP Agabe Blessing Kaborlo described the incident as a disturbing development that has disrupted the relative peace in the state. She assured residents that security agencies are investigating the attack and vowed that those responsible would be brought to justice.

As of the time of reporting, no group had claimed responsibility for the attack, and investigations are ongoing.