Tensions have escalated in the Igwuruta Community located in the Ikwerre Local Government Area of Rivers State, following the violent death of community youth leader, Festus Nchelem, at the hands of suspected herders.
Festus, who previously served as the Secretary of the Omuolu-Omunwei Community in Igwuruta, was allegedly murdered during an assault on February 11, 2026.
Witnesses reported that a group of armed men, who appeared to be herders, ambushed a local vigilante team, forcibly removed Festus from his car, and inflicted multiple stab wounds that led to his demise.
In addition to Festus, several others were injured in the attack, including a vigilante identified as Charles.
The assailants, who reportedly rode on more than 40 motorcycles, quickly fled the scene post-attack.
The brutal killing ignited a peaceful protest among community members, who are calling for justice and enhanced security in light of recent events.
On Thursday, local youths gathered, holding placards advocating for an end to cattle herding, motorcycle operations, and scavenging activities in the region. They also issued a warning, stating that any Northerner perceived to have malicious intentions should vacate the area.
During the protest, Gilead Chimenem spoke on behalf of the youths, condemning the killing and urging immediate intervention.
“The Igwuruta community is profoundly grieved and enraged by the tragic murder of our son, Nchelem Samuel Festus, who was killed on February 10, 2026, by Aboki motorcycle riders in our territory,” he expressed.
Chimenem highlighted that ongoing issues of rape, kidnapping, and other criminal acts have shattered the peaceful nature of Igwuruta, which was once a hospitable community.
He called for the closure of scrap metal sites, a cessation of motorcycle activities by Northerners, and the immediate removal of all cattle herders from local agricultural lands and surrounding forests.
Chimenem urged security forces to take action within 48 hours, warning that the community might have to resort to necessary measures to ensure the safety of their lives and property if no action is taken.
Responding to the situation, Charles Wobodo, the Chairman of the Ikwerre Local Government, imposed a ban on motorcycle operations in Igwuruta from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. until further notice.
During a visit to the deceased's family, Wobodo explained that this action aims to mitigate kidnapping, rape, and homicide incidents in the region.
“Some criminals use motorcycles as a means to carry out their unlawful activities. Those found responsible will face the full force of the law,” he stated, appealing to residents for patience and cooperation with law enforcement.
A senior officer from the Igwuruta Divisional Police Headquarters, who wished to remain anonymous, indicated that several individuals connected to the incident have been apprehended.
Grace Iringe-Koko, spokesperson for the State Police Command, confirmed the murder and noted that investigations are currently underway.
“Yes, I can confirm the incident that resulted in the youth's death. Calm has returned to the area, and inquiries are ongoing,” she stated.
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