The traditional ruler of Ikuru Town in Andoni LGA of Rivers State, HRM King (Dr.) Aaron Miller Ikuru (IKWUT VII), has denounced the killing of Patrick Franklin Ibiamu, calling it a brutal and unacceptable act.
In a statement dated April 24, 2026, the monarch said the incident stemmed from a violent confrontation involving the deceased and individuals allegedly linked to earlier cases of forced oath-taking and abduction in the community.
He explained that the matter was swiftly reported to the Nigerian Police Force, leading to the arrest of several suspects—including Ukwu Benjamin Wilcox, Ubelejit Berepele, and Awaji-Itong—during an operation by the Rivers State Police Command’s X-Squad.
Other individuals connected to the incident, such as Owen Samuel Nathaniel and Caleb Elijah, are also in police custody. Victims who sustained injuries were first treated at Bori General Hospital before being moved to the State Criminal Investigation Department (CID).
The monarch clarified that although one suspect is associated with the local vigilante group OSPAC, the actions of those involved should not be attributed to the organisation, which he said operates legally with official backing to support community security.
Addressing concerns about local security arrangements, King Ikuru dismissed claims that the Andoni Local Government Council Chairman had ordered the disbandment of his security outfit. He argued that such authorised groups cannot be dissolved unilaterally by local government authorities.
Reaffirming the role of traditional rulers as custodians of peace, he stressed that responsibility for security is collective and not solely under the control of local government officials.
He urged residents to remain calm and called on the Nigerian Police Force to ensure justice is served while restoring peace in Ikuru Town, expressing confidence that ongoing efforts will bring stability to the area.
