By Erewunmi Peace

One person has been killed and nine others injured in Rivers State after a clash between a masquerade group and a lawyer during a local festival in Omoku, Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area.

According to the Rivers State Police Command, the incident occurred on Sambo Street during a masquerade display by youths. Police said gunshots were fired, resulting in one fatality and multiple injuries. The injured have been taken to a nearby hospital for treatment.

The police confirmed that a lawyer, Barrister Akpudi Ikechukwu, allegedly involved in the clash, has been arrested along with two other suspects. They are currently in police custody at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) as investigations continue.

Police spokesperson CSP Grace Iringe-Koko stated that preliminary investigations are ongoing to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident and the extent of each party’s involvement.

Authorities have also deployed a joint police–military patrol in the area to maintain peace and prevent further clashes.
Residents have been urged to remain calm and cooperate with security officials.

The Rivers State Police Command emphasized that all parties involved will be held accountable in accordance with the law.