December 10, (THEWILL) – Stakeholders in Ahoada, Rivers State, have refuted claims by Governor Siminialayi Fubara that the arrests of two Ekpeye monarchs were politically motivated, describing the governor’s statements as misleading and unrelated to the facts surrounding the gruesome murder of a Divisional Police Officer, SP Bako Amgbasim.
Operating under the aegis of the Ekpeye Advocacy Group the stakeholders clarified in a statement on Tuesday that the arrests of HRM Kelvin Anugwo, Eze Igbu Akoh, and HRM Cassidy Ikegbidi were tied to the murder investigation of SP Bako and had no connection to the governor’s political challenges.
The statement, signed by EAG Convener Olimini Chinuzoke and Director of Publicity Nnamdi Ezebalike, stated, “SP Bako was murdered on September 9, 2023, while the monarchs were detained on September 11 on orders from the Commissioner of Police. This timeline debunks any association with the governor’s political ordeal, which began on October 30, two months after their detention.”
They accused Fubara of politicising the murder of SP Bako and trivializing the investigation, which they argued undermines justice for the late officer.
The group expressed concerns over the governor’s remarks, stating, “The governor’s attempt to link his political issues with the murder case only raises questions about his motives and casts doubts on his commitment to ensuring justice for SP Bako.”
The stakeholders also criticised the governor’s Chief of Staff, Edison Ehie, for allegedly boasting about influencing the monarchs’ release, a claim reportedly echoed by the detained kings themselves.
EAG highlighted the deteriorating security situation in Ekpeye, accusing the state government of failing to act decisively against criminal activities.
They noted that over 20 gruesome murders had occurred in the area in the last two months, including the killing of Mrs. Akpani and her five-year-old son, whose organs were reportedly harvested.
Other incidents mentioned include the October 20 killing of five people in Edeoha, the beheading of two individuals in Ihuowo, and multiple murders across Ahoada and surrounding towns.
The group alleged that known cultists were empowered with political positions during the local government elections, further emboldening criminal activities.
The stakeholders also accused Fubara of spreading falsehoods during recent public engagements, citing his claim that no projects were inaugurated in Etche during the administration of former Governor Nyesom Wike.
They noted that the claim was debunked by evidence from social media posts, prompting the governor to retract his statement during another public appearance in Ahoada.
They said, “The governor’s penchant for misrepresenting facts is troubling. His statements are not only misleading but also appear to be deliberate attempts to distort reality and whip up unnecessary public sentiment.”
EAG called on security agencies to intensify efforts to address the escalating violence in Ekpeye and ensure justice for SP Bako and other victims.
They concluded, “The governor’s comments on the monarchs’ arrests are not just inaccurate but undermine the integrity of the investigation into SP Bako’s murder. We urge the public to rely on verified facts and not be swayed by political narratives.”
Amos Okioma is a Correspondent at THEWILL
