The traditional ruler and indigenes of Akassa Kingdom in Brass Local Government Area of Bayelsa State have commended the Nigerian Navy for its swift and professional operation that led to the arrest of suspected criminal elements and a militant group allegedly led by one “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.
According to the monarch, the group had allegedly been terrorising Igu-Buo, also known as Cape Formoso Island, in Brass Local Government Area, and was linked to the unlawful killing of Chief Inatimi Ikua in 2025.
Kenibara VII, who is also Chairman of the Ijaw National Congress (INC), Central Zone, described the arrests as timely, saying the operation had brought immense relief to residents of the 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.
“We commend the discipline, professionalism and commitment of the officers and men of the Nigerian Navy who carried out this operation,” he said.
The monarch, however, cautioned youths in the kingdom against engaging in criminal activities, urging them to embrace lawful means of livelihood.
“Let it be known that the path of crime only leads to destruction, and nemesis will always catch up with those who tread it.
“We urge our young people to embrace hard work, dignity, respect for constituted authority and lawful enterprise as the only sustainable path to progress and honour for themselves and for Akassa Kingdom,” he stated.
The Akassa monarch also condemned what he described as a mischievous and sponsored attempt by some individuals to link the Speaker of the Bayelsa State House of Assembly and Ibe Tupuka of Akassa Kingdom, High Chief Rt. Hon. Abraham Ingobere, to the sponsorship of criminal activities.
He described the allegation as baseless, malicious and unfounded.
“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.
Kenibara VII highlighted Ingobere’s philanthropic activities, noting that several people within and outside Akassa Clan had benefited from his interventions, including support for medical treatment, housing assistance for the elderly, education and business empowerment.
He therefore urged members of the public and media practitioners to refrain from making unverified and defamatory allegations.
“Such acts only serve to distract from the peace, unity and development we are all working to achieve,” he warned.
The monarch further assured residents that following the intervention of the Nigerian Navy, peace had been restored in Hununu Community and its environs.
He urged residents to go about their lawful businesses without fear of intimidation, while pledging the continued cooperation of the Akassa people with the Nigerian Navy and other security agencies.
“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.
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