The council of traditional rulers in Khana local government area of Rivers state has raised the alarm over what it calls a sponsored protest meant to derail the investigation into the attempted assassination of their chairman, King Suanu Baridam.
In a statement on Sunday, the palace said it was "curious that certain individuals have become apprehensive whenever suspects linked to the attempted assassination of the King are arrested and interrogated by security agencies."
"Why are some persons uncomfortable with the arrest of criminal suspects and the continuation of police investigations?" the palace asked.
The attack on King Baridam happened between Sogho and Taabaa communities. Security agencies have already made arrests, and some suspects have reportedly confessed. This has helped investigators track down others.
The palace made it clear that the investigation is based on evidence and intelligence — not community, politics, or personal feelings.
"It doesn't matter whether a suspect comes from Taabaa, Sogho, Okwale, or any other community. If evidence links any individual to the attempted murder of His Majesty, security agencies have a constitutional responsibility to investigate and take appropriate action," the statement said.
It added that no distance can shield anyone. "Even if any individual linked to the crime is located in Sokoto, the United States, the United Kingdom, or any other part of the world, security agencies possess the expertise, legal framework, and inter-agency cooperation mechanisms required to track, apprehend, and bring such suspects to justice."
The statement was signed by Dr. Domene Mea, media consultant to the palace. It rejected any attempt to paint the lawful investigation as persecution.
"The attack on His Majesty wasn't a minor incident. It was a coordinated and violent attack allegedly aimed at taking the life of a foremost traditional ruler between Sogho and Taabaa communities. Such a serious crime can't and shouldn't be ignored."
The palace also assured the people of Taabaa that the king has no personal dispute with their community. The Ancient Bangha Kingdom, which King Baridam leads, maintains cordial relations with families, leaders, and residents of Taabaa.
"The issue at hand isn't a conflict between communities. Rather, it's a criminal investigation aimed at identifying and prosecuting those responsible for an attempt on the life of a traditional ruler. Innocent citizens have absolutely nothing to fear from a lawful and professional investigation."
The palace recognised and appreciated law-abiding citizens of Taabaa who are cooperating with security agencies to rid Ogoniland of criminal elements, illegal weapons, and violent activities threatening peace and development.
It urged the public not to be distracted by "sponsored campaigns, misleading narratives, or protests intended to undermine confidence in the ongoing investigation."
The council called on all well-meaning citizens of Ogoniland to support security agencies, local government authorities, the Rivers State Government, and the Federal Government in the fight against criminality.