PORTHARCOURT: The King of Bangha Kingdom in Khana Local Government Area of Rivers State, His Royal Majesty, King T. Y. Baridam, has called on his subjects, particularly youths, to remain calm and law-abiding following a recent assassination attempt on his life.
In a statement personally signed on Tuesday, the monarch urged residents to avoid violence and refrain from actions that could undermine ongoing police investigations into the attack.
The recent attempt on my life and the lives of those with me is deeply concerning,” the king said.
I urge all youths and citizens to remain peaceful, cooperate fully with security agencies, and allow due process to take its course.
King Baridam warned that individuals who resort to self-help or spread false information would face the full weight of the law, stressing that such actions could threaten peace, unity and development in Bangha Kingdom and the wider Khana Local Government Area.
The monarch expressed confidence in the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies handling the matter and appealed to residents to provide credible information that could aid investigations.
He further called for patience, mutual understanding and continued solidarity among community members during what he described as a sensitive period.
Reaffirming his commitment to the safety, welfare and peaceful coexistence of his people, King Baridam thanked security agencies, traditional leaders and residents for their support and prayers.
Through peace, vigilance and cooperation, justice will be served, he stated.
Recall that the traditional ruler was reportedly attacked by unknown gunmen on Sunday, January 25, 2026, while returning from a meeting in Okwale Community within the kingdom.
The attack allegedly occurred at about 5:30 p.m. along Tekar Sogho Road, leading to the East–West Road, when the assailants emerged from the bush and opened fire on the monarch’s black Prado SUV, damaging the windscreen and other parts of the vehicle.
King Baridam was said to have sustained a gunshot injury to his thigh and was subsequently rushed to a nearby medical facility, where he received treatment.
