Reported by: Oahimire Omone Precious | Edited by: Gabriel Osa
Ngo, Rivers State — A violent confrontation linked to a struggle for dominance between suspected rival gangs has plunged parts of Andoni Local Government Area of Rivers State into fear and mourning, after clashes left two people dead and another in critical condition. The incident, which occurred across the Ngo and Unyengala communities, has heightened security concerns in an area already familiar with periodic criminal unrest.
Local sources confirmed that the clash involved armed youths believed to be affiliated with rival groups, including the Icelanders cult group and another faction suspected to have links with former militant networks often associated with the Niger Delta’s history of armed agitation. The confrontation reportedly erupted suddenly, with gunshots ringing through residential areas and causing panic among residents, many of whom fled their homes for safety.
Eyewitnesses recounted scenes of chaos as armed men engaged each other in what appeared to be a coordinated and retaliatory attack. Residents said the violence followed days of rising tension and threats between the rival groups, allegedly over territorial control and influence within the communities. By the time calm was partially restored, two bodies were reportedly discovered, while another victim sustained life-threatening injuries and was rushed to a nearby medical facility.
The Rivers State Police Command has confirmed the incident, acknowledging that a deadly clash took place between suspected rival gangs in Andoni. In a statement issued through police sources, the command said it had intensified patrols and security presence in the affected areas to prevent further violence and reassure residents.
According to the police, investigations are ongoing to determine the full circumstances surrounding the confrontation, identify those responsible, and establish whether the incident was premeditated or the result of an escalating dispute. Security operatives have also been deployed to track fleeing suspects believed to have escaped into surrounding creeks and forested areas.
Community leaders in Ngo and Unyengala expressed deep concern over the resurgence of gang-related violence, warning that continued clashes could destabilise the fragile peace in Andoni. Some elders described the incident as a setback to years of community-led efforts aimed at discouraging cultism and criminal activity among youths.
“This kind of violence threatens not only lives but also livelihoods,” a community representative said. “Our people are traders, fishermen, and farmers. When shootings happen, markets close, fishing activities stop, and fear takes over daily life.”
Andoni Local Government Area, a riverine region in Rivers State, has periodically witnessed violent incidents linked to youth restiveness, cult rivalries, and disputes over territory and economic control. Although large-scale militant activity has declined in recent years, sporadic clashes between armed groups continue to pose serious security challenges, particularly in remote communities with difficult terrain.
Security analysts note that rival gang confrontations often stem from struggles for dominance over illegal activities, influence among youths, or perceived grievances linked to past conflicts. They warn that without sustained security operations and community engagement, such violence can quickly spiral, drawing in more armed actors and leading to reprisals.
In response to the latest incident, residents have renewed calls for the Rivers State Government and federal security agencies to strengthen intelligence gathering and address the root causes of cultism and gang violence. Youth leaders have also urged authorities to expand employment and skills-acquisition programmes, arguing that economic hardship continues to push vulnerable youths toward criminal groups.
Hospitals in the area have reportedly been placed on alert as fears persist that injured persons may require specialised care. Meanwhile, families of the deceased are said to be mourning quietly amid heightened security, with community members appealing for calm to prevent retaliatory attacks.
The police command has appealed to the public to cooperate with security agencies by providing credible information that could aid investigations. Residents were also urged to avoid spreading unverified reports that could inflame tensions or trigger panic.
As patrols continue and investigations unfold, the tragic incident has once again underscored the persistent challenge of gang violence in parts of the Niger Delta. For many in Andoni, the hope remains that swift arrests and sustained security measures will restore calm and prevent further bloodshed, allowing communities to return to normal life after a night marked by fear and loss.
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