Stephen Ukandu, Umuahia
Many reportedly sustained injuries as gunmen, Saturday, disrupted a rally by New Associates, a pro-Nyesom Wike political group in Bayelsa State.
Reports say some gunmen suspected to be political thugs stormed the rally group and began to shoot sporadically at the crowd, which immediately dispersed as participants scampered for safety.
No deaths were yet confirmed just as the identity of the attackers remains unknown.
Meanwhile, the attackers were said to have retreated after they were engaged by security personnel providing security at the rally ground.
Ikengaonline gathered that the rally was organised by Wike’s supporters in appreciation of President Bola Tinubu for appointing Bayelsa indigenes into positions of authority.
It was equally said that the rally would provide opportunity for attendees to declare support for Wike who is the grand patron of the group.
Governor Douye Diri had earlier kicked against holding any pro-Wike rally on Bayelsa soil warning that he would not tolerate the importation of insecurity into Bayelsa State.
Meanwhile, the Secretary of New Associates and former spokesman of Ijaw Youths Council (IYC), Comrade Ebilade Ekerefe, accused the state government of trying to scatter their peaceful rally, vowing to continue with the rally.
He said the put up the peaceful rally to appreciate President Bola Tinubu for appointing sons and daughters of the state in positions of responsibility in his government, wondering why somebody should feel threatened with a peaceful rally.
The State Government is yet to respond to the allegation.
