Tragedy struck in Obelle, Emohua Local Government Area of Rivers State, as suspected cultists believed to be members of the notorious Iceland cult group fatally shot the Vice-Chairman of the Obelle Council of Chiefs, Ferdinand Dabiri.
The gruesome attack reportedly occurred during a meeting of community chiefs at Omuwoka village.
Eyewitnesses said the assailants stormed the venue and singled out Dabiri, executing the act in cold blood while sparing other leaders present.
The suspected leader of the killers, identified simply as Cairo, allegedly arrived on a motorbike, walked straight into the gathering with a firearm, and opened fire on Dabiri.
Speaking in Port Harcourt, the deceased’s son, Joseph Dabiri, confirmed the harrowing event.
He said, “I heard that a guy came with a gun while my father was in a meeting at Omuwoka village in Obelle, and shot at him.
“Then somebody grabbed him (gunman) but he struggled and freed himself from the man’s grip and shot my dad again twice and fled.”
Joseph’s brother disclosed that the incident has been reported to the Rumuji Police Division for investigation.
Rivers State Police Command Spokesperson, Superintendent of Police Grace Iringe-Koko, also confirmed the killing and assured that the matter is under investigation.
She said, “I can confirm the incident. From the situation report I got one ‘Cairo’ went to the Obelle community and shot somebody while they were holding a meeting.
“The command has commenced investigation into the matter to ensure the perpetrators will be identified and made to face justice. The deceased’s body has been deposited in the morgue.”
