Notable Niger Delta socio-cultural group, the Orashi National Congress (ONC), said that the group has received with deep pain and grave concern, credible reports of an unprovoked attack on Agba-Ndele community in Emohua Local Government Area of Rivers State, which resulted in the killing of Dello, an indigene of Ogbema community, and injuries to several others.
According to Ambassador Emeni Ibe JP, AP, the President General of the Congress, the group condemns this barbaric, senseless, and cowardly act in the strongest possible terms. No grievance, dispute, or provocation can justify the unlawful taking of innocent human life.
“The Agba-Ndele people are known as one of Abua’s most peaceful neighbours. Their ordeal is therefore, not only an attack on one community, but an attack on the peace, unity, and shared humanity that bind neighbouring communities in the Orashi region” the ONC stated.
“The ONC extends its heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased, the Ogbema community, and the entire Agba-Ndele people. We share in your grief, and we stand in solidarity with you in this moment of mourning.”
“We pray for the peaceful repose of the soul of the departed, and for the quick and full recovery of those injured.”
“While we are deeply pained by this development, the ONC strongly appeals to all youths, stakeholders, and community members to remain calm, exercise restraint, and refrain from any form of retaliation or reprisal attack.”
“Vengeance is not justice. Peace must not be sacrificed on the altar of anger.”
“The ONC hereby calls on the Rivers State Police Command, and other relevant security agencies, to:
1. Launch an immediate, thorough, and impartial investigation into the attack;
2. Identify, arrest, and prosecute the perpetrators, whoever they may be, in accordance with the law; and
3. Intensify security patrols and surveillance along the Abua-Ndele Road and adjoining communities to protect lives and property.”
“We further call on the leadership of the affected Local Government Areas, traditional rulers, youth leaders, and other stakeholders to collaborate urgently to de-escalate tension and restore lasting peace.”
“Silence in the face of bloodshed is not neutrality; it is a dangerous failure of collective responsibility. At the same time, justice must be pursued through lawful means, not through further violence.”
The ONC said it remains committed to peace, justice, and the protection of all communities in the Orashi region.