Controversy has erupted in Rivers State after the Chairman of Eugene Ekpelle, leader of Ahoada West Local Government Area, has been accused of ordering an attack on a former aide following a social media post.
The aide, Minnie Ogadinma, claims she was assaulted along with her mother after sharing a video highlighting the dilapidated condition of a community school in Odioku and appealing for help. Ogadinma says the chairman ,angered by the post , arrived at her residence with his brother and aides, allegedly instructing them to “teach her a lesson.” She says the confrontation turned violent, forcing neighbours to intervene.
Ogadinma, who has since been relieved of her role as media aide, maintains her only intention was to draw attention to the deteriorating infrastructure at Community Secondary School, Odioku and to advocate for better learning conditions for students.
The local government council has denied the allegations, insisting that the chairman did not order any attack and visited her home only to discuss the matter peacefully. According to a statement from his office, Ogadinma became confrontational and sustained minor injuries after a passerby intervened.
The incident has drawn sharp criticism from civil society groups and human rights advocates, who have called on security agencies to investigate the claims thoroughly and ensure accountability. A Port Harcourt-based human rights lawyer described any violence against a citizen for speaking out about public infrastructure as unacceptable.
Residents of Ahoada West have expressed concern over the rising tension, urging calm while awaiting further developments. As of publication time, police authorities have not released an official statement on the matter.
