There has been growing tension among residents in Ogoni Kingdom since the news of an alleged assassination attempt on one of the renown traditional rulers in the land started to filter in early Monday morning.
According to reports on Monday, January 26, 2026, the chief monarch and chairman, Khana Supreme Council of Traditional Rulers, His Royal Majesty, King Suanu T. Y. Baridam, Kasinmene VII of Ancient Bangha Kingdom, was shot in his personal vehicle while returning from a meeting on Sunday, January 25, 2026.
Reports revealed that King Baridam and his driver were squared up on their way between Taabaan and Sogho after an engagement at Okwale community in Khana Local Government Area of Rivers State.
The victim who reportedly sustained a high degree of injuries, alongside his personal driver, is currently receiving treatment at an undisclosed hospital, with the condition of the monarch described as critical.
Concerned residents are calling on the security agencies within Khana Local Government Area as well as the Commissioner of Police, Rivers State Command, to swing into action as to investigating the incident and bringing the perpetrators to book.
A youth leader in the area, Gift Nbeeue, has described the incident as a direct attack on peace, governance and the traditional institutions in Khan Local Government Area.
The youth leader commended the medical officers who were on hand to provide the needed first aid and stabilise the situation.
Sources close to the King told Kristina Reports that he is responding to treatment at an undisclosed hospital.
There has been no official statement from the Rivers State Police Command as at the time of this report.