Supreme Council of Ogoni Traditional Rulers have unequivocally condemned the assassination attempt on one of its members, HRM King Dr. Suanu Baridam, the Gbenemene and Kasimene of ancient Bangha Kingdom by yet to be identified gunmen.
Baridam was reportedly attacked on Sunday 25th January 2026 after a meeting in Okwale, Khana LGA, Rivers State.
A statement by the coordinator of the council, Mene Samuel Nnee, considers this latest attack on King Baridam as “one too many” describing it as a barbaric attack on the collective traditional/cultural heritage of the Ogoni People.
The Supreme Council of Ogoni Traditional Rulers urged the Rivers State Police Command to swiftly investigate and apprehend those responsible for the act and bring them to face the full wrath of the law.
Furthermore, the council called on the Ogoni people, especially the people of ancient Bangha Kingdom to remain calm and give the needed support to security agencies.
The council reaffirmed its “commitment to peace building across the various communities in Ogoniland even in the face of provocative and unwarranted attacks; while also praying for the quick recovery of our dear brother monarch – HRM King Suanu Baridam. “
Meanwhile, King Baridam has called for calm from members of his kingdom following the attack on his life.
Baridam in a statement he personally signed urged youths and everyone from the kingdom to exercise restraint and be law abiding.
He assured his people that justice will be pursued transparently and lawfully while also expressing full confidence in the security agencies. The monarch appealed to all citizens to cooperate fully with investigators by providing credible information where necessary and allowing due process to take its course.
