Normalcy has returned to Finima Community in Bonny Local Government Area of Rivers State after a dispute over a masquerade display turned violent.
The crisis erupted on Saturday when gunmen reportedly invaded a cultural masquerade event and opened fire at the palace of the community’s traditional ruler, HRH Dagogo Brown.
The Amadabo of Finima narrowly escaped death during the attack, while several residents were injured and property was destroyed.
The dispute was reportedly linked to disagreements over cultural rites, masquerade displays and the rights of certain families to perform traditional activities.
The Rivers State Police Command confirmed the incident on Monday through its spokesperson, ASP Blessing Agabe.
Agabe told the News Agency of Nigeria in Port Harcourt that the situation had stabilised, while investigations were ongoing.
“Investigation is ongoing into the matter, while one of the gang members has been arrested,” she said.
She added that the arrested suspect was cooperating with investigators and providing information that could lead to the arrest of other suspects.
Security operatives are also searching for other members of the group who remain at large.
The Bonny Local Government Council condemned the attack and called for an impartial investigation to prevent further escalation.
The council chairman assured that anyone found responsible would face justice, regardless of their position or status.
He also appealed to residents who fled the community to return home, urging them to remain calm and law-abiding.
According to the council, security personnel have been deployed across the community to protect lives and property.
Finima’s strategic importance has heightened concerns over the incident, as Bonny Island hosts major energy facilities, including the Nigeria LNG plant and the Bonny crude oil export terminal
Authorities are now expected to intensify efforts to arrest the remaining suspects while addressing the cultural disagreements that triggered the violence.
The incident has also renewed calls for peaceful resolution of traditional disputes in a community that remains critical to Nigeria’s energy sector.
