Fear grips Omoku after gunmen kill vigilante leader, three women

Four people, including a local vigilante commander and three women, were killed on Tuesday evening after suspected cultists launched a deadly attack in Omoku, the headquarters of Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area (ONELGA) of Rivers State.

The victims were identified as Ozomela Stephen Nwaocha, the Omoku Zonal Commander of the ONELGA Security Planning and Advisory Committee (OSPAC), his sister, and two other women.

The attack occurred at about 5:00 p.m. along Oba Road in Omoku, where Nwaocha was reportedly seated outside his residence with the women when gunmen stormed the area and opened fire.

Eyewitnesses and security sources said the assailants carried out the attack in what appeared to be a targeted operation before fleeing the scene.

The three women were reportedly killed instantly, while two other persons sustained gunshot injuries and were rushed to a nearby medical facility for treatment.

The incident sparked widespread panic across the oil-producing community, forcing many shop owners to shut down their businesses as residents fled over fears of further attacks.

Community sources said commercial activities were disrupted, with several markets remaining closed as residents sought safety in neighbouring communities.

A resident, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said many people abandoned their homes following the attack, fearing possible reprisal attacks or renewed clashes between rival armed groups.

Confirming the incident, OSPAC Public Relations Officer Nkem Godknows described the attack as a “Gestapo-style operation” and appealed to residents to remain calm while security agencies investigate the killings.

Godknows also called on the government to improve funding, equipment and welfare for community vigilante groups, noting that local security operatives continue to face significant operational challenges.

The Rivers State Police Command condemned the attack, describing it as a tragic incident that disrupted the relative peace in the area.

Police authorities said a full-scale investigation has commenced and that security operatives have launched a manhunt for those responsible for the killings.

The command appealed to members of the public to provide credible information that could assist in identifying and apprehending the perpetrators.