20 houses burnt over youth’s death in Rivers

BY JIMITOTA ONOYUME

PORT HARCOURT – NO fewer than 20 houses, were, yesterday, set ablaze in Omudioga community, Emohua Local Government Area of Rivers State, when irate youths reportedly went berserk over the death of a youth, who was simply identified as Benjamin.

Details at press time were hazy but community sources said the rampaging youths speculated that the death of the late Benjamin might have been caused by some members of the community.

Effort to stop the rampaging youths from venting their anger on the property of innocent community folks was futile.

However, attempt to get the reaction of the state Police Public Relations Officer, Mr Ben Ugwuegbulam, was futile, as his mobile lines rang out.

Meantime, community sources said security men had been deployed to quell the riotous situation. Some victims of the attack, said they had to flee their houses when it became clear that the rampaging youths were out of control.

Chairman of the council, Mr Allen Nma, confirmed the incident, adding that the development had been brought under control.

“Several houses were burnt and property worth millions naira destroyed. The Police had taken over the place to prevent any further attacks, but the youths, responsible for these evil acts must face the wrath of the law,” he said.

SOURCE: Vanguard Nigeria