‘Opu-Nembe is bleeding’ — Bayelsa group asks Tinubu to stop killings in community

A group in Opu-Nembe, a community in Nembe LGA of Bayelsa state, has asked President Bola Tinubu to take action that would save it from further crisis.

In an open letter on Wednesday, E.T. Ikoli, Johnbull Efere, Afuroyanate Beredugo, Naomi Jonah, Alanabo Digigha, and Ayebaemi Kieriseiye, said the continued violence in the area has taken it backwards.

Opu-Nembe has been characterised by political violence, with recorded incidents around the state’s governorship election of November 2023.

“A case in point is the heinous violent attack that occurred on the 15th of February 2023, ahead of the just concluded Bayelsa general election,” the letter reads in part.

“Mr. President, on that fateful day, gunmen invaded the community, killing Baite Agala, Queen Kieriseiye and Inikio Walter who were all unarmed.

“They equally destroyed valuable properties worth millions of naira and rendered hundreds of peaceful residents in the community homeless.

“Those of us who are opposed to their siege and barbarism in the community have either fled or are living in constant fear as they attack whoever refuses to do their bidding.

“A criminal case concerning the killing of law-abiding innocent citizens in the community on the February 15 attack with charge number FHC/ABJ/CR/323/2023 was filed by the Inspector General of Police (IGP) at the Federal High Court sitting in Abuja.

“Some of the charges filed include terrorism, murder and stealing (a copy of the charge sheet is attached to this letter).

“Your Excellency, Opu-Nembe bleeds following the loss of lives and wanton destruction of properties and only justice can bring restoration and progress.”

They asked Tinubu to stand on the side of justice.