A group of unidentified gunmen have reportedly killed the Community Development Committee (CDC) Chairman of Igbomotoru 1 community, Mr. Goodnews Manash, in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area of Bayelsa State.
Sources said the attack occurred late Sunday night, around 10:30 p.m., as the victim was ambushed near the community school while on his way to visit a relative.
Confirming the development, the traditional ruler of the community, His Royal Highness Ayibaikie Ofongo, said he was first alerted between midnight and 2 a.m. that the CDC chairman had been abducted.
“Initially, I received a call that the chairman had been taken by gunmen. But by morning, I got confirmation that he was actually killed.
He is dead, and we are planning community meetings before issuing an official statement,” Ofongo stated.
The Press Secretary to the Chairman of Southern Ijaw Local Government Area, Mr. Ayibaetare Easterday, also confirmed the killing and described it as tragic.
“It is true. He wasn’t killed in his house but near someone else’s compound while heading there.
This is an unfortunate incident, and we sincerely hope it never happens again,” Easterday said.
He further urged residents to embrace peace and tolerance, adding, “We are one people—brothers and sisters. Disagreements should never lead to violence.
This act is completely condemnable and not reflective of our values as a community.”