By Daniel Edu
Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State has taken decisive action following the tragic murder of Divisional Police Officer Bako Angbashim in Odiemudie Community, Ahoada East local government area. In an official statement released on Saturday evening, Governor Fubara declared Gift David Okpara Okpolowu, known as “2-Baba,” and his criminal associates as wanted individuals in connection with the heinous crime. Furthermore, a substantial N100 million bounty has been placed on 2-Baba’s head for anyone who provides vital information leading to his arrest and subsequent prosecution.
Governor Fubara also imposed an indefinite suspension on a local monarch, Eze Cassidy Ikegbidi, for his alleged involvement in the murder. The statement clarified that Eze Cassidy had allowed David Gift and his gang to establish a foothold in his territory, facilitating their criminal activities.
The statement revealed the events leading up to the declaration: “On the 8th of September 2023 at approximately 7:00 pm, I was briefed on the security operations in the Odiemudie Community, Ahoada East Local Government Area of the state, and the tragic killing of SP Bako Angbashim, the Ahoada Divisional Police Officer, by a group of fugitives who are currently evading capture.”
It continued: “SP Bako and his team fell into an ambush while returning from their operation, where they were attacked by these criminals. Tragically, he was shot during the ensuing firefight, taken captive, and ultimately lost his life at the hands of his captors.”
Governor Fubara emphasized the gravity of the situation, attributing the resurgence of violent crimes in Ahoada East Local Government Area, such as kidnapping and terrorism, to David Gift Okpolowu (2-Baba) and his criminal gang, who have established camps in the region.
“As a responsible government, we cannot stand idly by while criminals and criminal activities thrive in any part of our state,” the statement declared.
To address the situation and bring the perpetrators of SP Bako’s murder to justice, Governor Fubara announced the following measures:
1. The prime suspect, Gift David Okpara Okpolowu (2-Baba), and all members of his criminal gang are hereby declared as wanted fugitives.
2. A reward of one hundred million naira (N100,000,000.00) has been offered to anyone who provides valuable information leading to the capture and prosecution of 2-Baba.
3. His Majesty, Eze Cassidy Ikegbidi Eze Igbu Akoh II, faces an indefinite suspension for his alleged complicity in enabling David Gift and his gang to operate freely within his territory.
Governor Fubara concluded by reiterating the government’s commitment to ensuring the security of all residents and pledged to do everything within their power to apprehend Gift David and his gang, bringing them to justice. He extended heartfelt condolences to SP Bako’s family, the State’s Police Command, and honored the fallen officer for his exceptional bravery and dedication to duty. The government promised support for the bereaved family during this challenging time and prayed for the peaceful repose of SP Bako’s soul.
