Palpable tension gripped residents of Isiokpo community in Ikwerre Local Government Area of Rivers State on Friday following an alleged attack on some members of the African Democratic Congress, ADC.

In a viral video, the ADC House of Assembly candidate for Ikwerre Local Government Area, Hon. Jeffrey Wobodo, was seen wounded.

DAILY POST gathered that Wobodo had convened a consultative meeting in Isiokpo ahead of his campaign activities when the incident occurred.

The gathering was reportedly disrupted by members of a local vigilante group and personnel of the Nigeria Police, as captured in a viral video.

Three party members, including Mr Confidence Amadi, Mr Chikezie Justice and Mr Isaiah Thomas, were arrested during the incident.

According to video clips making the rounds, some participants in the disrupted meeting alleged that they were injured and that their mobile phones were seized.

Although what triggered the incident is yet unknown, it may not be unconnected to allegations of cultism in the area.

Efforts by DAILY POST to reach the Rivers State Police Command for comment were unsuccessful as of press time.

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The Nigerian Army has announced investigation into an allegation of sexual abuse involving a serving officer, Captain Etim Essien, currently serving at Headquarters 3 Division, Jos, Plateau State.

In a statement by the division’s deputy spokesperson, Olumide Olukoya, on Saturday, the army said it takes all allegations of sexual abuse, particularly those involving minors and other vulnerable persons, with utmost seriousness.

“Accordingly, appropriate steps have been initiated to establish the facts and circumstances surrounding the reported incident.

“As the allegation is currently under process of investigation, it would be inappropriate to make definitive comments on the culpability or otherwise of any individual at this stage,” the statement said.

Reaffirming its commitment to due process, fairness and the protection of the rights and dignity of parties involved, the army noted that the relevant civil authorities were looking into the matter and would ensure a thorough and transparent investigation.

“The Nigerian Army places a high premium on discipline, professionalism and respect for human dignity. Upon the conclusion of the investigation, any personnel found to have acted contrary to the law or established service regulations will be dealt with appropriately,” it added.

The army urged members of the public to refrain from speculation, dissemination of unverified information or any action capable of prejudicing the ongoing investigation or compromising the privacy and wellbeing of the persons involved.