Chaos in Bayelsa as Gunmen Attack Pro-Wike Rally

Panic and chaos erupted in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State on Saturday after gunmen believed to be political thugs stormed a pro-Wike rally, opening fire on hundreds of peaceful supporters. The rally, organized by the NEW Associates group in support of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, and to thank President Bola Tinubu for appointing Bayelsans into key federal positions, descended into violence as attackers emerged from the surrounding creeks and bushes, shooting indiscriminately.

The event, which had been rescheduled to April 26 following tensions with rival political groups, turned into a scene of terror as attendees, gathered at the Church of God Mission Camp arena from as early as 8 a.m., scrambled for safety. In a desperate bid to save lives, security forces from the Nigeria Police Force, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and the Department of State Services (DSS) engaged the gunmen in fierce confrontation, eventually forcing them to retreat into the bushes. A full search of the surrounding area was launched to prevent further ambushes.

Speaking in the aftermath, Secretary of NEW Associates and former spokesman of the Ijaw Youths Council (IYC), Comrade Ebilade Ekerefe, condemned the attack, accusing the Bayelsa State government of attempting to sabotage their peaceful gathering. He vowed that no amount of intimidation would stop their movement. “How can anyone justify unleashing armed men on law-abiding citizens, particularly Ijaw youths, who have only gathered to show political support? This is a dangerous attack on democracy,” he declared.

Dr. Pabara Igwele, immediate past Commissioner for Health in the state, also condemned the attack, warning that those behind the violence were acting out of fear and political desperation. Despite the terrifying scenes, both he and other leaders vowed the rally would continue, and supporters soon regrouped to press forward with their program.