Port Harcourt — The Rivers State Police Command has commenced a full investigation into the attempted assassination of His Royal Majesty, King Suanu Baridam, the Paramount Ruler of the Ancient Bangha Kingdom in Khana Local Government Area of the state.
The monarch was reportedly shot on Sunday evening along Tekar Sogho Road in Khana while traveling to Port Harcourt. He was immediately rushed to an undisclosed medical facility, where he is currently receiving treatment.
The incident, which marks the second attempt on the life of the traditional ruler, has raised serious concerns among leaders and stakeholders of the Ogoni ethnic nationality.
Confirming the attack, the Police Public Relations Officer, Grace Iringe-Koko, said the command has launched a comprehensive investigation to apprehend those responsible.
According to her, the attack occurred at about 5:30 p.m. on January 25, 2026, as the monarch was returning from a meeting in Okwale community.
“Upon reaching Tekar Sogho Road leading to the East–West Road in Khana LGA, unknown gunmen emerged from the bush and opened fire on his vehicle, a black Prado SUV,” Iringe-Koko stated.
She added that the gunshots shattered the windscreen and other parts of the vehicle, while the monarch sustained a gunshot wound to his thigh.
Following the report, police teams were immediately deployed to the area to comb nearby bushes and communities in search of the attackers.
The Rivers State Police Command assured residents that no stone would be left unturned in ensuring the perpetrators are identified, arrested, and prosecuted.
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