His Majesty, King Suanu Baridam Escapes Death By Whisker As Gunmen Ambush Him, Pump Bullets Into His Car

Leaders and stakeholders across Ogoniland have continued to react strongly to the attack on His Majesty, the Gbenemene of the Ancient Bangha Kingdom and Chairman of the Khana Traditional Rulers Council, HRM King (Dr.) Suanu Timothy Yormaadam Baridam, JP, who was shot by unknown gunmen along the Taabaa–Okwale road on Sunday, 25 January 2026.

The incident has triggered widespread condemnation and renewed calls for decisive security action across Khana Local Government Area and beyond.

Chief Lesi Maol, President of KAGOTE, described the attack as a direct assault on the traditional institution and the collective dignity of the Ogoni people.

He said the development was a calculated attempt to undermine unity and destabilize the peace of the land.

“This is not just an attack on a person; it is an attack on our heritage, our identity, and the revered stool of our ancestors,” Chief Maol stated. “KAGOTE will not stand by while criminal elements attempt to drag Ogoniland into chaos.

Those behind this act must be exposed and brought to justice without delay.”

He further warned against shielding suspects. “No community leader, chief, or stakeholder should harbor anyone connected to this crime. Ogoniland will not be a sanctuary for criminals. We will fully support security agencies and ensure justice is served.”

Dr. Bariere Thomas, Executive Chairman of Khana Local Government Area, described the shooting as an unacceptable affront to the peace and security of Khana.

He assured residents that his administration would take firm steps to ensure the perpetrators are apprehended.

“No individual or group, no matter how powerful or connected, will be allowed under my watch to threaten the lives and properties of our people,” Dr. Thomas said. “The oath I swore to protect Khana residents was not ceremonial.

I will not rest until these criminals are arrested and prosecuted.”

He added: “We have mobilized and empowered security agencies to intensify operations across our communities.

I am prepared to personally lead security operatives to dismantle any hideout or criminal network operating within Khana. Criminality will find no safe haven here.”

The Ogoni Youth Federation (OYF), through its President-General, Engr. Legborsi Yamaabana, condemned the attack as cowardly and provocative. He warned that the targeting of a monarch devoted to peace was deeply troubling.

“We are alarmed that a traditional ruler who has championed reconciliation and unity is being hunted by criminals,” Yamaabana said. “This is a dangerous signal, and it must not be allowed to define the future of Ogoni.”

He continued: “We demand immediate, visible action from security agencies. Justice must be swift and transparent. The sanctity of our traditional institution must be preserved at all costs.”

Environmental activists, including the Executive Director of the Youth and Environmental Advocacy Center (YEAC), also expressed concern over the incident, describing it as a threat to community stability and governance.

“This attack raises serious concerns about security within our communities,” the activist leader stated. “An injury to a royal father is an injury to the peace architecture of the region.”

He further urged authorities to act decisively. “We call on the Commissioner of Police and the Rivers State Government to ensure a thorough investigation. Accountability is essential to restore public confidence and deter future attacks.”

Chief (Prof.) L. C. Micah, Egamene of the Ancient Bangha Kingdom and Spokesperson to the King, described the attack as a grave crime against a monarch carrying out his traditional responsibilities.

“This is a dastardly act against a King who has consistently worked to promote peace and harmony,” he said. “Such violence undermines our collective existence and threatens peaceful coexistence.”

He added: “We call for an independent and thorough security review. Those responsible must be identified and prosecuted in accordance with the law to prevent further erosion of confidence in our security system.”

Speaking on condition of anonymity, the Youth President of Nyokhana, Comrade Mene Uscar, condemned what he described as a brutal and provocative attack on the revered monarch.

He warned that the people of Nyokhana and Khana would resist any attempt to assassinate their king.

“We will not tolerate any attempt to eliminate or intimidate our revered King,” he said. “Nyokhana and Khana people stand firmly behind him.

Security agencies must intensify efforts to investigate, arrest, and prosecute everyone involved in this attack.”

He also called for restraint among aggrieved youths. “I urge all Nyokhana youths and our brothers across Ogoniland who have expressed anger and solidarity to remain calm and not take the law into their hands.

We will collaborate with the local and state governments to fish out these criminals. Such an incident must never happen again in Nyokhana.” Across Ogoniland, the dominant message has been one of unity, restraint, and demand for justice. Stakeholders have urged residents to remain calm while security agencies carry out investigations, even as pressure mounts for swift and decisive action to safeguard traditional institutions and community peace.