The Ekpeye Advocacy Group has criticised the Rivers State Government for allegedly distorting facts surrounding the murder of SP Bako Amgbashim, the late Divisional Police Officer of Ahoada Police Division.

In a statement signed by its leaders, the group accused Governor Siminalayi Fubara of making misleading claims about the incident and the arrest of two traditional rulers, HRM Kelvin Anugwo and HRM Cassidy Ikegbidi, who were detained in connection with the murder.

The group clarified that SP Bako was murdered on 9th September 2023, and the arrests were made shortly after. They asserted that these events were unrelated to the governor’s political challenges, which began months later.

Expressing concern over ongoing insecurity in the Ekpeye area, the group highlighted recent violent incidents, including the killing of over 20 individuals in the past two months. Among these were the murders of five people in Edeoha town on 20th October and multiple killings in other Ekpeye communities.

The group also criticised the perceived politicisation of the issue, alleging that efforts to ensure justice for SP Bako’s murder have been undermined. They urged security agencies to take decisive action to curb the violence and restore peace in the region.

“Our worry is that despite the killing of 2Baba, gruesome murders have continued to occur in Ekpeye on a daily basis without deliberate efforts by the state or local governments to end the insecurity,” the statement read.

They called on the state government and security forces to prioritise the safety of Ekpeye residents and address the growing threat to lives and property.