Illegal Armed Assault in Southern Ijaw

The Akamama Community in the Southern Ijaw Local Government Area of Bayelsa State has been thrown into chaos following an invasion by unknown gunmen dressed in military uniforms. The incident, which took place barely ten days after a previous attack by similarly dressed hoodlums, has left the community in a state of fear and uncertainty.

Our Sources report that the gunmen arrived in the coastal community in gunboats, accompanied by workers from an unnamed pipeline surveillance company. Upon their arrival, they proceeded to destroy properties worth millions of naira, causing significant economic hardship and halting all socio-economic activities in the area.

The sudden and violent invasion forced many residents, including children, men, and women, to flee into nearby bushes for safety. Elder Amaowei Sunday, a resident of the community, recounted his harrowing experience to newsmen, detailing how he was captured, beaten, and had his belongings destroyed by the attackers. He made a fervent appeal for urgent government intervention to restore peace and order in the community.

“This is unbearable. The unknown gunmen were pursuing people. Even yesterday, I was captured by them; they beat me up and destroyed my things,” Sunday said.

Ms. Catherine Allen, another resident, expressed her deep concern over the frequency of such invasions, labeling the situation as worrisome and unbearable. Similarly, Mr. Osain Geoffrey criticized the method of invasion, suggesting that the leadership of the community should have been invited for an interactive session instead.

“If there is anyone found wanting in the community, they should come and meet the chiefs in the community, meet the CDC chairman and tell them this is what we came for and not to put fear in the lives of the people,” Geoffrey stated.

The community members have collectively called on Governor Douye Diri, relevant stakeholders, and security agencies to urgently address the issue and bring the perpetrators to justice. They also urged the federal and state governments to hold the surveillance contractor accountable to prevent further unrest.

The repeated invasions have left the Akamama Community in dire need of support and intervention to ensure the safety and well-being of its residents.