Rivers Police Declare Council Officials Wanted Over Administrator’s Assault

The Rivers State Police Command has declared two top local government officials wanted over a violent attack on the Administrator of Ahoada-East Local Government Area, Goodluck Iheanachor.

Those named are Hector Ekeakita, who serves as Chief Security Officer, and Aloni Olodi, Chief of Staff to the administrator. Both men are accused of criminal conspiracy, assault occasioning harm, attempted murder, and theft.

According to police spokesperson Grace Iringe-Koko, the assault took place on June 20, 2025, at the council secretariat. Iheanachor was allegedly attacked by a group of about 30 individuals, who beat him, stole sensitive documents and mobile phones, and forcefully took his signature under duress. Personal and official items were also carted away from his office.

The administrator is currently receiving medical treatment for injuries sustained during the incident.

Despite being invited by police for questioning, the two suspects have reportedly refused to appear. As a result, Commissioner of Police Olugbenga A. Adepoju has declared them wanted and directed them to report immediately to the police headquarters on Moscow Road, Port Harcourt. The CP further warned that anyone found harbouring the suspects would face prosecution.

CSO Denies Involvement

Meanwhile, Hector Ekeakita has denied any role in the attack. Speaking during an appearance on Channels Television’s Morning Brief on June 23, he insisted he was not part of the assault and questioned why his name was mentioned.

“I, as the chief security officer, how would I do that? How would I venture into carrying hoodlums to go and attack the man I’m working with? I was never found in the video,” Ekeakita said.

He explained that although he heard a commotion, he was instructed not to interfere.

“When I heard the noise of the political appointees that the sole administrator did not pay for May, when I barged in, I was asked to shut the door, that it was between him and those political appointees,” he explained.

“I never made any video or carried any hoodlums to go and attack him. So, where did I and the chief of staff come into the picture?”

The incident drew public attention after a disturbing video surfaced online, showing Iheanachor seated on the floor, visibly distressed, as he was repeatedly flogged with canes. In the background, voices could be heard demanding he “sign that thing” and “put your signature.”

The fallout from the incident has been worsened by conflicting reports surrounding the administrator’s status, following rumours of his resignation.