Fear has gripped residents of Obelle, a community in Emohua Local Government Area of Rivers State, after suspected cultists invaded the area and killed the Vice Chairman of the Obelle Council of Chiefs, Ferdinand Dabiri.
The attack occurred on Saturday evening during a community meeting attended by Dabiri and other local chiefs.
According to unconfirmed sources, the assailants are believed to be members of the Iceland cult, allegedly led by a notorious figure known as ‘Cairo’.
Witnesses say the attackers arrived on motorcycles, and ‘Cairo’ reportedly walked directly to Chief Dabiri, shot him twice at close range, and fled the scene with his men.
The sudden violence caused panic, forcing other chiefs and villagers to flee for their safety.
Joseph Dabiri, the chief’s son, confirmed the killing in a telephone interview on Sunday.
He said, “I was told a man came into the meeting at Umuwoka village, shot my father, and when someone tried to hold him, he broke free and shot my dad again before escaping.”
He added that the family had reported the incident to the Rumuji Police Division and called for justice to be served.
Spokesperson for the Rivers State Police Command, SP Grace Iringe-Koko, also confirmed the incident, stating that the case is under investigation.
She said, “From the report I received, a suspect identified as ‘Carol’ went to the Obelle community during a meeting and shot the victim.
The command has launched an investigation to ensure those responsible are arrested and prosecuted.
The victim’s body has been deposited in the morgue.”
The killing has heightened fears in the community, as residents worry about possible reprisals and further violence.