Rivers State Police Investigates Okrika Communal Clash

A renewed communal clash occurred in Okrika, Rivers State, reportedly linked to a longstanding land dispute involving two host communities and the Port Harcourt Refinery Company. The violence resulted in the destruction of several properties, including vehicles, and two individuals are currently missing.

A viral video showed a Hilux vehicle engulfed in flames amidst sporadic gunfire, prompting residents to flee for safety. Obarilom Ollor, the chairman of Elem Local Government Area, announced an immediate suspension of real estate activities within the council area, accusing land grabbers of fueling the crisis.

He issued a statement warning against illegal land transactions and emphasized that any individuals involved in land grabbing would face prosecution. The chairman cited a 1957 Supreme Court judgment regarding ancestral land ownership and cautioned potential investors against purchasing land in the area.

The Rivers State Police Command is currently investigating the incidents.