Multiple Incidents of Violence and Kidnapping Rock Bauchi and Rivers States

Tensions ran high in Bauchi and Rivers states after reports of banditry and violence emerged, leaving several people injured and others feared to be in danger. In Bauchi, four individuals were kidnapped in an attack by bandits, while in Rivers, a gunman suspected of being an assassin killed the Vice Chairman of Obelle Council of Chiefs. Additionally, a student was killed in a suspected cult-related incident in Port Harcourt.

Key Takeaways:

• Four people were kidnapped by bandits in Gyale Village, Mansur District of Alkaleri Local Government Area, Bauchi State, on July 20, 2025. The victims were Tasiu Malam Yahaya, 32; Hakilu Ubayo, 15; Abdul Aziz Suleiman, 28; and Rabiu Ganjuwa, 16, all shop owners in the village.
• The Vice Chairman of Obelle Council of Chiefs, Chief Dabrison, was killed by a gunman suspected of being an assassin in Obelle town, Emohua Local Government Area of Rivers State. The incident occurred on a Saturday evening, reportedly at around 18:00 hours.
• A student from Ignatius Ajuru University, Julius Okpor, was shot and killed in a suspected cult-related incident in Rumuolumeni, Port Harcourt, on July 19, 2025, at about 11:30am.
• Residents of Obelle are deserting the area in fear of being attacked by unknown gunmen, while the public in Rivers State has been assured that efforts are underway to clamp down on cultism and restore peace in the area.
• The Rivers State Police Command has launched a full-scale investigation into the suspected cult-related incident, while the Bauchi State Police Command is working to rescue the kidnapped individuals and apprehend their perpetrators.