Tension has enveloped the Rumuji community in Emohua Local Government Area of Rivers State following a violent clash over youth leadership that claimed one life and led to the burning of the community monarch’s palace.
The crisis reportedly erupted during a recent meeting organized by a company operating in the area to discuss the activation of a mini-power plant built for the community. Trouble began when Emohua Local Government Chairman, Dr. Chidi Lloyd, allegedly announced a new youth president, sparking outrage among supporters of the incumbent leader, Anele Ogbu.
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Eyewitnesses said the disagreement quickly turned violent, resulting in the fatal stabbing of Mr. Paul Oduveh, a supporter of Ogbu. He was rushed to the hospital but died before receiving medical attention.
In retaliation, angry youths allegedly set fire to the palace of the community’s traditional ruler, Eze Christian, destroying parts of the property.
The development has thrown the community into panic, with fears of further violence between rival youth factions.
Reacting to the incident, Ogbu accused masked men, allegedly supported by some community members and local vigilantes, of attacking him and vandalizing his home. He appealed to security agencies to restore calm and prevent more casualties.
“If nothing is done, more youths may lose their lives,” Ogbu warned, alleging political interference in the leadership tussle.
As of press time, a spokesperson for the Rivers State Police Command, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, had yet to issue an official statement on the incident.
