**Alleged Assault on Rivers Lady: CSOs Suspect Political Undercurrents as Mediation Hits a Dead End** A recent development in the Rivers State has left many tongues wagging. Uchechi Minnie Ogadinma, a former aide to the Chairman of Ahoada West Local Government Area, Eugene Ekpelle, has come out to deny reports of a peace agreement reached between her and the council chairman following allegations of physical assault. According to Ogadinma, she attended a meeting convened by a coalition of civil society organisations in the state, which was also attended by the chairman. However, she claims that no resolution was reached due to the chairman's refusal to sign an undertaking guaranteeing her and her mother's safety. The chairman, Eugene Ekpelle, allegedly rejected the request, citing concerns that signing such a document could make him liable if any harm befell Ogadinma in the future. Instead, he proposed to swear before a deity in the community and suggested that a town crier be engaged to announce that the matter had been resolved. Ogadinma expressed her dissatisfaction with the proposed solution, stating that a written agreement was necessary to ensure her safety and that of her mother. She also rejected the chairman's proposal to involve a deity and a town crier, insisting on a more tangible and formal agreement. The incident raises questions about the role of politics in the alleged assault and the failure of mediation efforts. Could the chairman's reluctance to sign an undertaking be a ploy to avoid taking responsibility for his actions? Or is this simply a case of a disagreement between two parties? The involvement of civil society organisations in the mediation process is a positive development, as it brings attention to the issue and puts pressure on the parties involved to reach a resolution. However, the fact that the mediation failed to yield a satisfactory outcome highlights the challenges of resolving conflicts in a polarised and politicised environment. As the situation unfolds, Nigerians are left to wonder if justice will be served and if the alleged assault will be properly investigated. Only time will tell if the parties involved will find a way to resolve their differences and bring closure to this contentious issue.