The incident took place in the early hours of Monday along Sambo Street, where youths were participating in a masquerade procession and reportedly got into a confrontation. The exact cause of the clash remains under investigation
One person has been killed and eight others seriously injured following a clash during a masquerade display in Omoku, the headquarters of Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area in Rivers State.
The incident took place in the early hours of Monday along Sambo Street, where youths were participating in a masquerade procession and reportedly got into a confrontation. The exact cause of the clash remains under investigation.
During the altercation, nine members of the masquerade group sustained gunshot injuries and were rushed to the hospital. One of the victims, identified as Obulo, was pronounced dead, while the remaining eight are receiving treatment.
Confirming the incident, Rivers State Police Command spokesperson CSP Grace Iringe-Koko said several suspects have been arrested and transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) for further investigation.
She stated: “The Rivers State Police Command has launched an investigation into a shooting that occurred early Monday, January 19, 2026, along Sambo Street, Omoku, resulting in one death and multiple injuries.
“At about 0700hrs, a report was received that around 0130hrs, a confrontation occurred involving Barrister Akpudi Ikechukwu and four personnel of the Nigeria Forest Guards Security Service (NFSS) during the masquerade procession. Nine masquerade participants sustained gunshot wounds.
“One victim, Obulo, died at the hospital, while eight others remain under medical care. Barrister Akpudi Ikechukwu and two other suspects were arrested and transferred to SCID for detailed investigation.
Preliminary inquiries are ongoing to determine the circumstances and the level of responsibility of all parties involved.
“In the meantime, the Area Commander addressed aggrieved youths to calm tensions and prevent a breakdown of law and order.
A joint police and military patrol has been deployed to secure the area. The Rivers State Police Command assures the public that all culprits will be brought to justice.”
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