Tragedy struck in Rivers State after a politician and community mobiliser, Samuel Obe Ngobe, was reportedly shot dead by suspected assassins inside his hotel in Ebubu community, Eleme Local Government Area.
The shocking incident, which occurred on May 22, has thrown residents of the community into mourning and renewed concerns over insecurity and targeted killings in parts of Rivers State.
According to reports, two masked gunmen stormed the hotel owned by the deceased and opened fire on him before fleeing the scene on a motorcycle.
Eyewitnesses said the attackers allegedly trailed the politician to his business premises before carrying out the deadly attack in what many residents suspect was a carefully planned assassination.
Community sources revealed that the assailants also seized mobile phones belonging to hotel workers and other persons at the scene to prevent them from raising an alarm during the operation.
The killing has sparked fear and tension within the Ebubu community, with youths and local leaders demanding a full-scale police investigation to uncover those responsible for the attack.
In a statement released by Ebubu youths, the community strongly condemned the murder, describing it as barbaric and unacceptable.
The group said the deceased was a respected community mobiliser and businessman who contributed immensely to local development and youth empowerment.
We condemn this wicked act in its entirety. Two-armed men reportedly trailed him to his business complex, killed him and escaped on a motorcycle. We call on security agencies to ensure those behind this crime are identified and prosecuted, the statement read.
The youths also sympathised with the family of the late politician and pledged to cooperate with law enforcement agencies to track down the perpetrators.
Friends, political associates and loved ones have since taken to social media to mourn Samuel Obe Ngobe, describing his death as painful and heartbreaking.
Many Facebook users shared tributes and photographs of the deceased, praying for justice and expressing concern over the increasing wave of violent attacks in the state.
The Rivers State Police Command confirmed the incident on Monday.
Police Public Relations Officer, Agabe Blessing Kaborlo, stated that investigations into the killing had commenced.
Investigation is ongoing on the matter, the police spokesperson said.
The killing comes amid growing security concerns in Rivers State, where residents have repeatedly called for stronger measures to tackle cult violence, political clashes and criminal activities.
Security analysts say targeted attacks involving politicians and community leaders have become a major source of concern ahead of political activities linked to the 2027 general elections.
Authorities are yet to announce any arrests in connection with the murder as investigations continue.
