Police investigate fire at ADC member’s home in Rivers

The Rivers State Police Command has started looking into the fire and attack on the family home of an African Democratic Congress member, Isaiah Madubochi, in Omuoko village, Aluu, Ikwerre Local Government Area.

This incident happened early Wednesday morning, just a day after campaigns began for the 2027 presidential and National Assembly elections.

ASP Agabe Blessing, the police spokesperson, confirmed the event on Thursday. He said, "Investigation is ongoing to ascertain the cause of the fire and alleged attack in that community."

Reports say that over five armed men entered the house looking for Madubochi, who was not there. The attackers searched the compound, stole property from the family and tenants, then set parts of the house on fire before running away.

Madubochi’s mother, Uchechi, claimed that the assailants were searching for her son after he held an ADC meeting at their home the day before.

“They asked why my son did not join them instead of joining another party. They broke the house, set fire, carried my mattress, my television, fridge and generator, and started shooting,” she said.

A tenant, who wished to remain anonymous, said the attackers claimed to be security agents before they broke into the house, smashing doors and windows, and setting it ablaze.

Another tenant, who runs a Point of Sale business, said the attackers took some of his money and hurt his family members.

“I have a four-month-old baby. I didn’t sleep. The place is burnt and we don’t have anywhere to go to,” he said.

In response, Charles Nwobodo, the Chairman of Ikwerre Local Government Area, condemned the attack and promised to work with security agencies to find those responsible.

“If it is political according to them, I totally condemn that, where our people will lose their houses and other properties in the name of politics. That is unacceptable in Ikwerre Local Government,” he said.

Meanwhile, Chizi Enyi, the ADC state publicity secretary, called the event a targeted attack on the party’s members. He demanded an immediate investigation.

“Our members have been threatened, intimidated and attacked for exercising their constitutional right to associate and participate in political activities,” Enyi said.

He also mentioned that the party’s governorship candidate and state chairman visited the scene, urging police and security agencies to find out who was behind the attack.

The party stated it remains committed to peaceful political activities and will not support retaliation or vigilantism.