Encomium trail quick arrest of suspected killer of Bayelsa Estate Agent

By: Odieh Ramon, Yenagoa.

Stakeholders in Bayelsa State have continued to shower encomiums on the Bayelsa State Police Command over the quick arrest of George Idumangi, the suspected killer of the 42-year-old Estate Agent, Richard Ekpebu.

George Idumangi was arrested last Monday at the office of the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS) at Festac Town in Lagos while procuring an International Passport to flee the country.

Business mogul and Chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Bayelsa State, Chief Robert Ayalla Enoa, has commended the quick efforts of the Bayelsa Police Command through the Operation Puff Adder headed by CSP Chris Nwaogbo.

Also the Chieftain of the All Progressive Congress (APC), Barr. Festus Daemuebi called on the top echelon of the Police Force and the present administration of Gov. Douye Diri to encourage police personnel who have distinguished themselves in the protection of the people with a reward system for excellence.

The leadership of the Ohaneze Ndigbo worldwide, Bayelsa State chapter has also commended the State Commissioner of Police, Francis Idu, and the commander of the Operation Puff Adder for a job well done and in mobilising the search for the alleged killer

The Ohaneze Ndigbo, headed by Dr. Frank Oduwukwe, described the successes of the police in the state as encouraging and radiated the feeling of safety among the residents.

The Ohaneze Ndigbo said the Igbo people have, over the years, monitored the successes of the Police under the leadership of the State Commissioner, Francis Idu, and the support of the State Governor, Senator Douye Siri, and found out that the state capital and its environment have been quite safe.

According to the Igbo Social Cultural group, the police have saved the state from the blushes of criminal elements with the rescue of Igbo businessmen from the attacks of kidnappers, the rescue of the State High Court Judge, the recovery of stolen rifles belonging to the personnel of the NCSDC, the rescue of the brother of the NDDC Managing Director, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku and many more through the Operation Puff Adder squad in the state.

“Above all, the recent quick arrest of the suspected killer of the 42-year-old Bayelsa Estate Agent. These actions have boosted the confidence of the people of the State in the Police and the administration of Governor Douye Diri.”

He announced that the Ohaneze Ndigbo has earmarked the Police Leadership in the State, led by the Commissioner, Francis Idu, and CSP Chris Nwaogbo, for honours during the September 29th Igbo Day,2025, for their bravery and tactical disposition to security, which has brought desirable peace and calm to Bayelsa State.

In his solidarity message to the Bayelsa Police Command, the Chairman, Bomo Clan Council of Chiefs in Southern Ijaw Local Government Area of the State, HRH (Dr.) Inatimi I.S.A. Zalakoro, extended their profound appreciation and commendation to you and the entire Bayelsa State Police Command for your exceptional role in the arrest of Mr. George Idumangi, the suspected killer of Mr. Richard Ekpebu, a respected real estate developer in Bayelsa State and son-in-law of the Bomo Clan.

According to the letter of appreciation signed by HRH (Dr.) Inatimi I.S.A. Zalakoro and made available to newsmen, “the tragic and senseless killing of Mr. Ekpebu came as a devastating blow to our clan and left a deep wound in the hearts of our people. This heinous act committed against one of our own in-law families is one we continue to grieve over.”

“However, your swift and determined response in pursuing justice has brought a sense of relief and reassurance to our communities.”

“We are particularly moved to commend Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) Chris Nwaogbo, Commander of the Operation Restore Peace (Puff Adder) Unit of the Nigerian Police Force, Bayelsa State Command, who, with uncommon courage, professionalism and tactical expertise, personally led the operation that led to the apprehension of the suspect in his hideout in Lagos.”

“CSP Nwaogbo’s rare display of professionalism, tactical brilliance, and personal leadership in tracking and arresting the suspect from his hideout in Lagos, Nigeria, deserves the highest praise. His actions exemplify the core values of dedication, courage, and service that the Nigerian Police Force stands for.”