Outrage As Gunmen Attack Bangha Monarch ......Traditional Ruler Describes Assault As Threat To Rivers State’s Traditional Institution

The traditional institution in Rivers State has come under renewed threat following the violent attack on HRM King (Dr.) Suanu Timothy Yormaadam Baridam, the Gbenemene and Kasimene of the Ancient Bangha Kingdom in Khana Local Government Area, an incident that has drawn widespread condemnation from traditional rulers, community leaders, and concerned citizens across Ogoniland and beyond.

King Baridam, a highly respected and government-recognized traditional ruler, was shot by unidentified gunmen under circumstances that have raised serious security concerns and renewed fears over the safety of traditional rulers within their own communities. As of 2026, the monarch remains one of the most prominent voices within the Ogoni traditional institution and is widely regarded as an advocate of peace, justice, and communal harmony.

Reacting strongly to the incident, His Royal Chief Ambassador Magnus Edooh, a senior traditional ruler in Rivers State, and the PR Vll of the Ancient Dee-Eewa Kingdom, described the attack as “very sad, unfortunate, and deeply disturbing,” noting that it represents not only an assault on the person of King Baridam but a direct attack on the traditional institution as a whole.

“This is not just an attack on Khana or Bangha Kingdom alone. It is an attack on the entire traditional institution in Rivers State. The traditional throne is sacred. It is not political; it is cultural and traditional. Any person who attacks a government-recognized traditional ruler has attacked the government and has also attacked his own people,” Chief Edooh stated.

He emphasized that traditional rulers occupy a sacred office entrusted with the responsibility of preserving culture, mediating conflicts, maintaining peace, and serving as custodians of the people’s heritage. As such, any attempt to intimidate or harm them undermines communal stability and social order.

Chief Edooh called on Ogonis, Rivers people, and Nigerians at large to collectively and unequivocally condemn the attack, warning that silence in the face of such violence could embolden criminal elements and further erode respect for traditional authority.

He further urged security agencies to immediately intensify investigations and ensure the swift arrest and prosecution of those responsible for the attack, stressing that justice must not only be done but must be seen to be done.

“Those behind this criminal act must be fished out. When such people are brought to justice, others will learn that they cannot take the law into their hands,” he said.

In addition, the traditional ruler appealed to the federal and state governments to urgently review and strengthen strategies aimed at mopping up illegal arms from individuals and communities, describing the widespread availability of weapons as a major threat to peace, security, and traditional leadership.

“Traditional rulers should not be threatened in their own houses and communities. If a traditional ruler is no longer safe at home, then the community itself has no protection,” he warned.

Describing King Suanu Baridam as a monarch of national and international repute, Chief Edooh noted that the Bangha ruler serves as a key voice and unifying figure among Ogoni traditional rulers, adding that any attempt on his life carries grave implications for the region and beyond.

He also issued a strong message to youths, cautioning against involvement in violence, criminality, or acts capable of destabilizing their communities and discouraging investment.

“Ogoni land is blessed with massive land and enormous economic potential. Acts like this scare away investors and stall development. The youths must refrain from unholy acts that destroy our future and that of generations yet unborn,” he said.

Chief Edooh called for sustained prayers for the quick recovery of King Baridam, describing him as a steadfast advocate of peace and justice who has consistently promoted unity across communities. He further urged all paramount and community rulers across Ogoniland to convene immediate town-hall meetings to sensitize youths and residents on the dangers of violence and the need to protect the sanctity of the traditional institution.

Commending the Chairman of the Council of Chiefs for publicly condemning the attack, Chief Edooh said traditional rulers are united and determined to work together with government and security agencies to ensure that such incidents do not recur. 

“We must preserve life, preserve peace, and protect everything we stand for as traditional rulers,” he concluded.