. . . Police Mum, Party Kicks
By: Felix Ikpotor
There was panic in Omoku, headquarters of Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area of Rivers State on Tuesday as suspected assailants reportedly killed the Commander of the Omoku branch of ONELGA Security and Peace Advisory Committee (OSPAC), Ozoemela Stephen Wokocha and three other women.
OSPAC is the local security outfit assisting conventional security forces in maintaining peace in the area.
The incident it was gathered occurred along the old palace road in the Omoku.
Although no group has claimed responsibility for the attack, but locals say the killing of the OSPAC Commander could signal the resurgence of violent and indiscriminate killings which plaqued the area few years before the introduction of the local security outfit. They also recounted that several OSPAC officials have been killed in recent times sparking fears of a possible return to the “Don Wanie” days in the area.
Before now, Commandant-General of OSPAC, Emeka Onyeocha had raised serious concerns over the welfare of the officers including poor funding and other unresolved issues.
However, the Police in the state was yet to comment on the matter at the time of this report as the Command’s Public Relations Officer, ASP Agabe Blessing was yet to respond to inquires sent to her.
Meanwhile, the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Rivers State Chapter, has strongly condemned the attack, describing it as barbaric, senseless and unacceptable.
ADC in a statement by it Publicity Secretary, Chizzy Enyi said the incident is another painful reminder of the worsening security challenges confronting Rivers State.
The ADC said it is particularly disappointed by what it considers to be the inadequate response of the Chairman of the Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Council to the horrific tragedy.
“At a time when the people expected visible leadership, compassion and urgency, the response fell far short of what the situation demanded. Leadership is not only about occupying public office; it is about standing with the people in their darkest moments. In times of tragedy, public officials must demonstrate empathy, provide reassurance, and identify with grieving communities. The people of ONELGA deserved to see leadership that reflected the gravity of this heartbreaking incident, ” the statement read.
The party said it cannot remain silent while residents of ONELGA continue to live under the shadow of violent attacks and growing insecurity, adding that the recurring incidents of violence in the area demand urgent and coordinated action from all relevant authorities.
ADC called for a thorough investigation into the attack.
”We therefore call on the Rivers State Commissioner of Police to immediately launch a thorough, professional and transparent investigation into this horrific crime and deploy all necessary resources to identify, apprehend and prosecute those responsible.
”This case must not become another unresolved crime. Every individual found to have participated in, facilitated or aided this criminal act must be brought before the law to answer for their actions. Justice must not only be done but must be seen to be done, ” the party said.
”We also call for increased security patrols, improved intelligence gathering and stronger collaboration between security agencies and local communities to prevent further attacks and restore public confidence in the safety of lives and property, ” it added.
The party extended its sympathy to the ONELGA people, saying,”The ADC stands firmly with the people of Omoku and ONELGA and will continue to advocate for justice, security and responsible governance across Rivers State. “
