By: Felix Ikpotor
The Rivers State Police Command says it is investigating the circumstances surrounding the boa mishap which occurred in Kula community, Asari-Toru Local Government Area of Rivers State on Tuesday which led to the death of atleast 10 persons.
The 10 persons were reportedly killed after a community boat reportedly capsized during a confrontation between residents and alleged military personnel over an oil spill at Oil Mining Lease (OML) 55 in Kula, Akuku-Toru Local Government Area of Rivers State.
Community sources say for some days now, members of the community had a barricaded the Kula waterways blocking a vessel belonging to Ibeto oil from exiting their shore over claims of compensation.
However, a military patrol team attempted to forcefully open the human blockade on Tuesday leading to chaos which reportedly caused the community boat to capside.
Amongst the deceased are the Community Development Committee Secretary of the Kula, Opiri Davies and two members of a local vigilante outfit, Amama Soldiers.
The Rivers State Police Command in a statement by its spokespetson, ASP Agabe Blessing confirmed the incident but said the Command was investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident.
”The Rivers State Police Command is aware of the incident in Kula Kingdom, Akuku-Toru Local Government Area of Rivers State, which reportedly resulted in the loss of lives. Investigation is ongoing to ascertain the exact number of casualties and the circumstances surrounding the incident, ” she said in a statement.
Also, chairman of AKULGA, Aboiya-a Bob-Fubara in a statement, commiserated with the community and families who lost loved ones. He also appealed for calm while investigations continued into the cause of the incident.
He said: “On behalf of the Government and people of Akuku-Toru Local Government Area, I extend my heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and the entire Kula Kingdom. This is a painful loss, and my thoughts are with all those affected by this unfortunate incident.
”We must do everything within our capacity to establish the circumstances surrounding this tragedy. My administration will work with relevant government agencies and security authorities to ensure a thorough investigation and identify measures to prevent a recurrence”.
The council chairman added: “I appeal to the people of Kula Kingdom and all concerned to remain calm and allow the relevant authorities to carry out their responsibilities. We must avoid actions that could heighten tensions and instead pursue dialogue and peaceful resolution of any disputes.
”I also urge companies operating in Akuku-Toru to report community-related disputes and security concerns promptly to the local government so that issues can be addressed before they escalate”.
He emphasized that the protection of lives and property remains his fundamental responsibility, adding that his administration will continue to work with community leaders, companies, and relevant authorities to promote peace, strengthen cooperation, and ensure the safety of the people.
Meanwhile community sources say rescue operations are already ongoing to recover the corpse of the drowned community persons.
