Tina Amanda
Gunmen suspected to be cultists have killed the president of Abarikpo community in Akoh kingdom, Ahoada East Local Government Area of Rivers State.
The deceased, Ebenezer Matthew, was shot and killed by the assailants on Wednesday night in his hometown.
His death comes less than three months after gunmen suspected to be a cultist gang, raped a woman to death in the community.
In an interview with our Correspondent, Public Relations Officer of Akoh Youth Congress, Ahoada East LGA, Comrade Ekeakita Hector Chinem, confirmed that the late Ebenezer Matthew was shot dead in his father’s compound.
He said, “Comrade Mathew Ebenezer was shot dead last night in his hometown. The only thing I know about Matthew is that he is somebody that does not condole illegality.
“He has been standing firm, fighting against cultism and insecurity in the community, and I believe that is the reason that might have led to his death. I know he has been a good person in Akoh kingdom.
“The matter has been reported to the Police and the family of the deceased are preparing for his burial.
“The insecurity in Ekpeye communities has turned to a usual Church praises. When you talk of killings in Ekpeye both Ahoada East and Ahoada West, it’s like usual praises. People no longer sleep with their two eyes closed. Every day we record killings in numbers.
“As of last month April, we had about thirty-six death recorded in Ekpeye kingdom. From the ones recorded, Ubie community has the highest about sixteen, Ahoada six, Akoh three; there are daily robberies at Odiemenyi road, including machines (Motorcycles) that were stolen.”
Chinem called on the security agencies and political leaders to beef up security in Ekpeye land before the poor masses perish.
“I call on the Divisional Police Officer, the Area Commander, the JTF Commander and the two Local Government Chairmen of Ahoada East and Ahoada West, and the Paramount rulers to come to the aid of poor masses in Ekpeye land before the thing turns to 2016 matter.”
When contacted, the Spokesperson for the Rivers State Police Command, SP Grace Iringe Koko confirmed the incident.
She said it was not a cult clash noting the police have identified the person who led the gang that killed the youth leader.
The Police image maker said that the Kingpin and other culprits are still at large while efforts are on to arrest them as investigation continues.
