The Rivers State Police Command has launched an investigation into the violent attack on the Amadabo of Finima Community in Bonny Local Government Area, HRH Dagogo Brown, following a clash over traditional rites and masquerade displays.
The monarch reportedly narrowly escaped death on Saturday when gunmen invaded a cultural masquerade display and opened fire around his palace.
Several residents were allegedly injured by gunshots and machete cuts, while property was destroyed during the violence, which erupted in the early hours of the day.
Confirming the incident on Monday, the Police Public Relations Officer in Rivers State, ASP Blessing Agabe, said normalcy had been restored to the community.
Agabe disclosed that one suspected member of the gang had been arrested, while investigators were working to apprehend other suspects still at large.
“Investigation is ongoing into the matter, while one of the gang members has been arrested,” she said.
According to her, the arrested suspect was providing useful information that could assist the police in unravelling the circumstances surrounding the attack and identifying other members of the gang.
The violence reportedly followed disagreements over cultural identity, traditional rites, masquerade displays and the rights of families to perform certain traditional activities.
No death was recorded in the incident, but several residents reportedly sustained injuries before police operatives were deployed to restore order.
Meanwhile, Chairman of Bonny Local Government Council, Mr Abinye Pepple, condemned the attack and destruction of property, calling for an impartial investigation to prevent further escalation.
Pepple assured residents that anyone found culpable would face justice, regardless of status or position.
“The council assures that anyone involved in this dastardly act will face justice, no matter their position or status,” he said.
He urged residents who fled the community to return home, remain calm and law-abiding, while assuring them that security personnel had been deployed to protect lives and property.
Finima, on Bonny Island, hosts critical national energy infrastructure, including the Nigeria LNG gas-liquefaction plant, comprising Trains 1 to 7, and Renaissance Africa Energy’s Bonny crude oil export terminal.