By: Kpazoo Morrison
The Executive Chairman of Khana Local Government Area, Dr. Thomas Bariere Ariar, who was recently coronated as Mene-Fiinor I of Khana (War conqueror) has paid a solidarity visit to His Royal Majesty, King HM Baridam Suanu Yormaadam , at his palace in Bangha, Nyo-Khana, following the monarch’s recovery from a near-fatal attack by unknown gunmen earlier this year.
Recall that on Sunday, January 26, 2026, the traditional ruler was reportedly shot at close range while traveling in his vehicle, sustaining serious injuries alongside his personal driver. However, after weeks of medical care, the monarch has now returned home, a development that has drawn relief and gratitude across the Khana.
During the visit, the Chairman expressed profound gratitude to God for sparing the king’s life, noting that his survival was nothing short of divine intervention.
Addressing members of the traditional council, chiefs, and security agencies present, he reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to protecting lives and property.
“As your elected Chairman, I am under oath to protect lives and property,” he stated. “Where a government fails in this responsibility, it amounts to lawlessness. We will not allow that to happen in Khana.”
Furthermore, the council boss strongly condemned the attack, describing it as part of a disturbing pattern of insecurity witnessed in some communities within the local government. He assured residents that his administration is working closely with security agencies to bring all perpetrators to justice.
Thomas also addressed recent allegations made against him by some individuals on radio platforms, describing such claims as baseless, misleading, and a deliberate attempt to distract from ongoing investigations.
“Some ill-informed persons have made nasty and unfounded statements about my person,” he said. “But no amount of blackmail or diversion will derail us from getting to the root of this matter. We remain committed to a zero-tolerance stance on crime, no matter who is involved.
He further questioned the credibility of individuals allegedly linked to acts of insecurity who, according to him, attempt to present themselves as collaborators in the search for justice.
“You cannot be mentioned in connection with insecurity and at the same time claim you want to help the government find the culprits. That is deceptive and unacceptable,” he added.
The chairman disclosed that security operatives have already made arrests, with suspects reportedly giving useful information. He assured the public that those behind the attack would soon be exposed.
He emphasized the importance of unity and vigilance, stressing that no individual or group would be allowed to destabilize the peace of Khana or impose themselves on the people through violence.
“We know our people, and we will protect what belongs to us. No one will take away the only king we have,” he declared.
In his response, King Suanu Baridam expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Chairman and his delegation for the visit and support shown during his recovery period. He thanked God for preserving his life and acknowledged the solidarity of the government and people of Khana in his time of trial.
