By Ayomide Otitoju
The Paramount Ruler of Bangha Kingdom in Khana Local Government Area, Rivers State, Suanu Baridam, narrowly survived an attack by gunmen on Sunday evening, sustaining a gunshot wound to his leg.
The first-class traditional ruler was returning from an engagement in Okwale community when assailants ambushed his convoy around 5:30 p.m. on Tekar Sogho Road, which connects the area to the East–West Road. Eyewitnesses said the attackers tried to force the monarch’s vehicle to stop between Taabaa Junction and Sogho.
The monarch’s driver was also wounded in the attack. Both were rushed to the hospital, where Baridam is currently receiving treatment.
In a statement on Monday, the Rivers State Police Command confirmed that unknown gunmen emerged from the bush and fired at the monarch’s black Prado Jeep, shattering the windscreen and other parts of the vehicle. Police identified the victim as King T. Y. Baridam, the Paramount Ruler of Bangha Community, and confirmed he sustained a gunshot injury to his thigh.
The motive for the attack remains unclear, but sources indicated it may have been an assassination attempt. Patrol teams have been deployed to comb the area and track the attackers.
“The Rivers State Police Command has commenced investigation into the incident and will leave no stone unturned in bringing the perpetrators to justice,” the statement said, urging the public to provide credible information to assist security agencies.
The attack has raised concerns about the safety of traditional rulers amid a rising spate of violent incidents in parts of Rivers State.
