July 21, (THEWILL) – Unknown gunmen dressed in military uniform have reportedly invaded Akamama Community in Opuama Kingdom, Southern Ijaw Local Government Area of Bayelsa state.
It was gathered that the attack was coming barely 10 days after a previous attack on the community.
The alleged military personnel, who arrived in the community in gunboats, were accompanied by workers of an unnamed pipeline surveillance company.
It was further gathered that the gunmen destroyed property worth millions of Naira in the coastal community, creating economic hardship and halting socio-economic activities in the community.
The fear of the arrival of the gunmen forced many children, men and women of the community to flee into nearby bushes for safety.
Speaking to newsmen, an indigene of the community, Elder Amaowei Sunday, while narrating his ordeal appealed for an urgent government intervention.
According to him, “They (gunmen) were pursuing people. Even yesterday, I was captured by them, they beat me up and destroyed my things.”
He also called on the federal and state governments to intervene by calling the said surveillance contractor to order.
Also speaking, Ms Catherine Allen noted that the latest invasion of the community has become one too many.
On his part, Mr. Osain Geoffrey, another resident of the community, stated that instead of invading the community, the leadership of the community should have been invited.
“If there is anyone found wanting in the community, they should come and meet the chiefs in the community, meet the CDC Chairman and tell them this is what we came for and not to put fear in the mind of the people,” he said.
They called on Bayelsa State Governor, Douye Diri, and relevant stakeholders as well as security agencies to wade into the issue.
Amos Okioma is a Correspondent at THEWILL
