The Rivers State Police Command has launched an investigation into the attack on the family residence of a member of the African Democratic Congress, Isaiah Thomas, in Omuoko village, Aluu, Ikwerre Local Government Area of the state.

🇳🇬 Here's What Happened

The state Police Public Relations Officer, Blessing Agabe, confirmed the incident to our correspondent on Thursday, saying the command was investigating the cause of the fire and the alleged attack.

“Yes. Investigation is ongoing to ascertain the cause of the fire and alleged attack in that community,” Agabe, an Assistant Superintendent of Police, stated.

It was gathered that more than five armed men stormed the community early Wednesday and headed straight to Thomas’ family residence, demanding to see him. He was, however, not at home.

📌 Key Details

Angered by his absence, the assailants reportedly ransacked the residence and looted property belonging to the family and tenants before setting the building ablaze and fleeing the scene.

The incident occurred barely 24 hours after campaigns officially opened for the presidential and National Assembly elections.

Speaking to journalists, Thomas’ mother, Uchechi, alleged that the attackers arrived in large numbers, armed with guns, and set some buildings within the family compound on fire.

She said household property was destroyed during the attack, adding that the assailants were looking for her son, who had hosted a meeting of ADC members at the family compound the previous day.

Although she said she did not know the identities of the attackers, Thomas stated, “They asked me to tell them what was happening in the compound. They broke my son’s house. It was later that I heard that the meeting my son held with youths of Omuoko and other places was the cause of the problem.

“When I asked which meeting, they said it was an ADC meeting. They asked why my son did not join them instead of joining another party.

📰 Source: Punch Nigeria