Relief has spread across Khana Local Government Area of Rivers State as His Royal Majesty, King Baridam Suanu Yormaadam, returned to his palace in Bangha, Nyo-Khana, following his recovery from a gun attack earlier this year.
The monarch was reportedly shot at close range by unknown gunmen on January 25, 2026, while travelling in his vehicle, sustaining serious injuries alongside his driver. After weeks of medical treatment, he has now recuperated and reunited with his people.
The Executive Chairman of Khana LGA, Dr. Thomas Bariere Ariar, paid a solidarity visit to the palace, where he expressed gratitude to God for sparing the king’s life, describing his survival as an act of divine intervention.
Addressing traditional rulers, chiefs, and security operatives during the visit, Bariere reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property, warning against any form of lawlessness in the area.
“As your elected Chairman, I am under oath to protect lives and property. We will not allow insecurity to thrive in Khana,” he said.
The council boss condemned the attack on the monarch, linking it to a broader pattern of insecurity in some communities, and assured residents that efforts were ongoing to apprehend those responsible.
He disclosed that arrests had already been made, with suspects providing useful information to security agencies, and expressed confidence that the perpetrators would soon be brought to justice.
Dr. Bariere also dismissed allegations made against him in some quarters, describing them as baseless and intended to distract from ongoing investigations.
“No amount of blackmail will derail us from getting to the root of this matter. We have zero tolerance for crime, regardless of who is involved,” he stated.
He called for unity and vigilance among residents, insisting that no individual or group would be allowed to destabilise the peace of Khana.
“We will protect what belongs to us. No one will take away the only king we have,” he added.
Family members of the monarch, including his wife and children, expressed appreciation to the chairman for his support and efforts in ensuring security, offering prayers for his continued success.
In his response, King Yormaadam thanked the chairman and the people of Khana for their solidarity during his recovery, expressing gratitude to God for preserving his life.
The visit marked a significant moment for the community as it continues to recover from the shock of the attack while looking forward to justice and restored peace.
