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Rivers State Police Detain Lawyer and Two Others Following Fatal Shooting at Masquerade Festival
In a recent development in Omoku, located within the Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area of Rivers State, the police have apprehended a lawyer named Claudius Akpudi Ikechukwu along with two additional suspects. This action follows a violent shooting incident during a traditional masquerade event that tragically resulted in one death and several injuries.
Details of the Incident
The confrontation took place in the early hours of Monday, January 19, 2026. Eyewitnesses reported that the altercation began when a masquerade performer allegedly struck the lawyer’s vehicle with a cane amidst the ongoing cultural procession. In retaliation, the lawyer exited his car and discharged a firearm, leading to chaos and panic among attendees.
Casualties and Community Reaction
The gunfire claimed the life of Emmanuel David Nkemjika, who was notably the immediate past Treasurer of the Omoku Youth Federation. Additionally, six other individuals sustained injuries of varying severity. The incident sparked outrage among local youths, who responded by setting fire to the lawyer’s family residence in the Santa Maria neighborhood as well as his private home in Obrikom, escalating tensions within the community.
Official Police Statement and Ongoing Investigation
Command spokesperson CSP Grace Iringe Koko confirmed the occurrence of the shooting in a statement released on Tuesday. According to the police report, at approximately 1:30 a.m., a clash erupted involving Barrister Akpudi Ikechukwu and four officers from the Nigeria Forest Guards Security Service (NFSS) during the masquerade procession along Sambo Street. The confrontation resulted in nine masquerade participants suffering gunshot wounds.
One victim, identified as Obulo, succumbed to injuries at Omoku Hospital, while eight others remain hospitalized receiving treatment. The lawyer and two other suspects were swiftly arrested and transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for thorough examination.
Measures to Restore Peace and Security
Authorities have launched a comprehensive inquiry to determine the precise circumstances and assign responsibility for the incident. To prevent further unrest, the Area Commander engaged directly with aggrieved youths to de-escalate tensions and maintain public order. Additionally, a joint security task force comprising police and military personnel has been deployed to safeguard lives and property in the affected area.
Commitment to Justice
The Rivers State Police Command has assured the public that all individuals found accountable for the violence will face legal consequences. This incident highlights ongoing challenges in managing public safety during cultural events, emphasizing the need for enhanced security protocols and community engagement.
