Gunmen opened fire at the headquarters of the Onelga Security and Peace Advisory Committee (OSPAC) on Erema Street in Omoku town, injuring one officer. The attack occurred at 8:10pm on Saturday in the Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area of Rivers State. Two vehicles, including an ash-coloured Lexus Jeep, were used by the assailants, who shot indiscriminately before fleeing the scene.
Residents and passersby ran for safety as the gunfire sparked panic. OSPAC's Public Relations Officer in Rivers State, Godknows Nkem, confirmed the incident during a statement on Sunday. He said the office serves as a hub where members of the public lodge complaints. Nkem expressed shock over the brazenness of the attack, noting that guards at the station eventually repelled the gunmen.
One OSPAC personnel sustained a bullet wound to the ankle. Nkem said no lives were lost. He added that the group has operated in the area for eight months but has not received welfare support, describing their survival as a struggle. Despite the attack, he urged residents of ONELGA to remain calm and continue lawful activities.
The Rivers State Police Command confirmed the incident. Police spokesperson Blessing Agabe, an Assistant Superintendent of Police, said investigation is ongoing. Agabe stated that no arrests have been made, as the attack occurred late at night, but efforts are underway to identify the perpetrators and bring them to justice.
OSPAC claims its presence brings order to ONELGA yet its personnel have gone eight months without welfare support, raising questions about its operational stability. The group operates as a frontline security body while depending on unpaid volunteers. If its own survival is uncertain, the assurance it gives residents may rest on shaky ground. The attack exposes a gap between its declared authority and its actual institutional backing.
Editorial note: AI-assisted opinion. All persons mentioned are presumed innocent until proven guilty. Full disclaimer →
