The traditional ruler and indigenes of Akassa Kingdom in Brass Local Government Area of Bayelsa State have commended the Nigerian Navy for its operation that led to the arrest of suspected criminal elements and members of a militant group allegedly led by a man identified as “Sunday”.
The commendation was made by the Chairman of the Akassa Clan Council of Chiefs, His Royal Highness Moses Theophilus Kenibara VII, in a statement issued on Wednesday.
Key Highlights
- Akassa monarch commends Nigerian Navy for arresting suspected militants.
- The group allegedly terrorised Igu-Buo, also known as Cape Formoso Island.
- The monarch linked the group to the alleged killing of Chief Inatimi Ikua in 2025.
- Akassa traditional council warned youths against criminal activities.
- The monarch rejected allegations linking Bayelsa Assembly Speaker Abraham Ingobere to criminal activities.
- Residents were urged to go about their lawful activities without fear.
According to Kenibara, the suspected militant group had allegedly terrorised Igu-Buo, also known as Cape Formoso Island, in Brass Local Government Area for some time.
He further alleged that members of the group were responsible for the unlawful killing of Chief Inatimi Ikua in 2025.
The monarch, who is also Chairman of the Ijaw National Congress, Central Zone, described the arrest as timely, saying it had brought relief to residents of Akassa Kingdom.
“This timely intervention has brought immense relief to our people and will go a long way in restoring lasting peace and security not only within Igu-Buo, but across Akassa Clan and its environs,” Kenibara said.
He commended the Nigerian Navy for what he described as the discipline, professionalism and commitment displayed by its personnel during the operation.
## Monarch Warns Akassa Youths Against Crime
Despite the arrest, the Akassa traditional council urged youths in the kingdom to stay away from criminal activities.
Kenibara warned that involvement in crime would have serious consequences and urged young people to pursue legitimate means of earning a living.
“Let it be known that the path of crime only leads to destruction, and nemesis will always catch up with those who tread it,” he said.
He called on youths to embrace hard work, respect for constituted authorities and lawful enterprise as the basis for personal development and the progress of Akassa Kingdom.
Monarch Rejects Allegation Against Bayelsa Assembly Speaker
The monarch also rejected what he described as attempts by some individuals to link the Speaker of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly, High Chief Rt. Hon. Abraham Ingobere, to the sponsorship of criminal activities in the area.
Kenibara, who described Ingobere as a revered son of Akassa Kingdom, said the allegation was baseless and without foundation.
“We state categorically that this allegation is baseless, malicious, and without foundation. Our son is a man of impeccable character, service, and integrity,” he said.
He highlighted Ingobere’s philanthropic activities,
including support for medical treatment, assistance to elderly residents, educational sponsorship and empowerment of indigenes involved in business and trade.
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The monarch consequently warned members of the public and media organisations against making unverified allegations against individuals.
“We therefore warn members of the public and the media to desist from making unverified and defamatory utterances. Such acts only serve to distract from the peace, unity, and development we are all working to achieve,” he said.
Akassa Kingdom Assures Residents of Peace
Kenibara said the intervention of the Nigerian Navy had restored peace in Hununu Community and its surrounding areas.
He urged residents to resume their lawful activities without fear of intimidation.
“We once again thank the Nigerian Navy and all security agencies for standing with the people of Akassa. We pledge our continued cooperation and support in the collective fight against crime and in the maintenance of peace and security in our domain,” he said.
The monarch’s statement comes amid continued calls for stronger security measures in riverine communities across Bayelsa State, where criminal activities and militant attacks have previously disrupted livelihoods and community life.
