Residents of Ndele Community in the Emohua Local Government Area of Rivers State have fled their village over fears of reprisal attacks from operatives of the Nigerian Army.
It was gathered that two soldiers were allegedly attacked and disarmed by some members of a local vigilante group in the local government, with their iniforms and rifles reportedly taken away on Saturday night.
However, when contacted, the Local Government Chairman, Chidi Lloyd confirmed the incident.
“Yes, I am aware that soldiers have laid siege to Ndele community. When I investigated further, I was told that there is a notorious criminal there who disarmed two soldiers and took their rifles. When you disarm a Nigerian soldier you must expect collateral damage.”
Meanwhile, the Commander General of the State vigilante group – OSPAC – Kingsley Ogwumike said the people who attacked the soldiers weren’t OSPAC members but people operating on their own.
He said, “There is no OSPAC operative that is normal who will see a soldier and attack him let alone taking his gun. They are not our members and we will make sure we assist the military in apprehending them.
“I’m appealing to the Army to please reduce the collateral damage so it doesn’t affect innocent OSPAC members and natives of the community.”
