This was contained in a statement by the Chairman of the Traditional Rulers Council and Ibenanaowei of Ekpetiama Kingdom, King Bubaraye Dakolo, in Yenagoa.

Explaining further, the monarch said that traditional rulers from the three councils have gathered intelligence that there were plans to create politically orchestrated violence, ahead of the election.

While calling on law enforcement agencies to not only verbally reassure the people of state, he insisted that they must ensure elections.

He said that it has become worrisome to the traditional institution in the state that some political gladiators are bent on destroying the peace that the current administration, led by the Governor DouyeDiri, has brought in the state for over three years.

the Nembe violence, Dakolo, on behalf of the council, called for thorough investigation and prosecution of those concerned. To the violence in the community, He called on law enforcement agencies to do their work thoroughly.

His address reads in part: “The attention of the Bayelsa State Traditional Rulers Council has been drawn to recent violent incidents in Nembe Council of Bayelsa State.

“On Saturday August 12, 2023, the peace, which Nembe had enjoyed for some time now, was breached in the most unfortunate manner, creating a serious sense of insecurity, panic and fear among the people of the town, the local council and the entire state.

“Looking back at recent historical precedence, it could be inferred, and rightly so, that the attack on the community is not unconnected with the upcoming gubernatorial elections in the state. ’’

“We do not think that law enforcement should allow political actors to violate laws of the land and walk away free in the name of politics.”