The gunmen, who stormed the community were said to have engaged in an exchange of gunfire.

Tragedy struck as three victims were killed in a battle between two militant gangs in Opu-Nembe community in Nembe Local Government Area of Bayelsa State.

The gunmen, who stormed the community on Wednesday night, February 15, 2023, were said to have engaged in exchange of gunfire.

An aide to the youth president of Opu-Nembe community, Baite Nelson-Agala and his girlfriend, Kieriseye, were reportedly shot dead by the gunmen, while one other person was also killed. The home of the Opu-Nembe Youth President, Ayerite Moses, was also attacked.

Spokesman of the State Police Command, SP Asinim Butswat, who confirmed the incident, said the number of casualties was not known, adding that the command had deployed more security personnel to the area.

Meanwhile, one Francis Raphael Biobarakuma, who confirmed the killing in a Facebook post, said the deceased lady was his sister-in-law, adding that it was a politically-motivated attack.

"I received the sad news of the unfortunate deaths of three vibrant youths in Bassambiri, Opu Nembe, by unidentified gunmen who attacked the residence of the youth president, Engr. Ayerite Moses.

"My sister-in-law Queen Kieriseye and Baite Agala, who was like an elder brother to me while growing up, were among those killed in yesterday night’s attack.

"Investigative evidence suggests the attack was politically motivated and carried out by desperate politicians who will do anything and kill anybody and everybody to stay in the corridors of power.

"The people do not need such wicked and terrible people as leaders, people willing to hire mercenaries to kill their own people because of power and money—people they claim to love.

"I want to urge every law enforcement agency to quickly investigate this killing and make arrests, and I encourage anybody with information that can lead to their arrest to go to the police.

"This attack is an attack on the people of Opu Nembe and the Opu Nembe Kingdom. Those who order this attack have broken the peace accord that was signed in the presence of the Amayanabo of the Opu Nembe Kingdom and therefore are enemies of Opu Nembe.

“I urge everyone to conduct themselves peacefully and with caution while the police work to bring justice.It is only with peace that we can build the Nembe we want. May God rest the souls of the deceased. God bless Opu Nembe.”