Death toll in Bayelsa clash now 16 - Militant leader on danger list

Soji Ajibola, Yenagoa - 25.06.2008

A leader of one of the militant groups in Bayelsa State, Prince Igodo, is now on danger list, while the death toll in last weekend’s clash between two militant groups in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area of the State has increased to 16.

The clash, involving Prince Igodo-led group and another group known as Ogunbos, broke out in the early hours of Sunday, claiming the lives of no fewer than 10 people including passers-by, while others were injured.

Ogunbos, according to a source, had a one on one confrontation with Igodo at his base in Opuama in Southern Ijaw, demanding for autonomy, having served under him for several years.

Describing the demand as an affront, Igodo allegedly attacked Ogunbos using various weapons.

The source stated that during the attacks which lasted for several hours, Igodo was badly injured while one of his war boats was hijacked by the opposition.

The source added that Igodo was rushed to Ekeowe community for medical treatment. While there, members of Ogunbos group stormed the place and renewed hostilty, which at the end recorded more casualties.