Rivers judiciary panel begins inquiry into arson attack on IKwere

The Rivers State Judiciary Panel of Inquiry has commenced its investigation into the arson attack on the Ikwerre Local Government Area (LGA) secretariat, which occurred on October 7.

The panel’s first hearing featured witnesses from Ikwerre LGA with Smiles Azunda, Secretary to the council, representing the area.

According to Azunda, the damage from the arson attack is estimated at N3.219 billion.

In her opening address, Justice I. R. Minakiri, chairman of the commission, stressed that the panel’s purpose is fact-finding and recommendation, not victimisation. She appealed for cooperation from all parties involved and insisted on strictly following the prescribed terms of reference of the commission.

While in his defense on the memoranda he submitted on October 28 on behalf of the council to the commission, Azunda urged the commission to admit attached photographs and video clips that captured moments of the ill-fated incident of the burnt section of the council secretariat as evidence.

Also, the LG secretary tendered an attached document in his memoranda, a report of an investigation carried out by one John Chukwumadi on October 18 in the arson.

He also submitted photographs and video clips wherein he identified former lawmaker Anselm Oguguo, Charles Wobodo, Obinna Ekem, and others as allegedly responsible for the attack.

According to Azunda, the council staff captured the arson moment on their mobile devices and uploaded it online.

Also, a video clip played during the hearing showed associates of former LG chairman, Samuel Nwanosike, including his former chief of staff, Ordu Okacha, claiming that the arsonists were 15 armed men sent by the LG Chairman, Isreal Abosi.

However, Azunda disputed this claim, insisting that Nwanosike’s supporters were responsible for the attack.

Azunda expressed frustration that despite filing reports with the police, no action has been taken.

He also told the commission that Nwanosike and his supporters have formed a parallel government, whereby they collect taxes and levies, with the police being aware but failing to intervene.

The second witness, a consultant, Engr. Patrick Madume, said the integrity of the building affected by the fire was still intact as there were no visible cracks but recommended a complete renovation.

The estimated cost of damage to the council secretariat exceeds N3 billion, with the evidence tendered before the commission.

Prince Iheanyi Williams, Paramount Ruler of Ubima, testified that the Ikwerre Traditional Rulers Council visited the secretariat on October 11 and found the damage to be wanton.

Williams urged the panel to ensure the proper prosecution of those responsible in his recommendation.

Meanwhile, the commission adopted the memoranda with documents, photographs, and video clips tagged as exhibits.

The panel adjourned till tomorrow for continued hearing.