The Bayelsa State Government has called on the police to investigate a shooting that occurred at a political rally organized by the NEW Associates, a group reportedly loyal to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike. The rally, held on Saturday, was intended to show appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for appointing individuals from Bayelsa State into his government. However, the event was disrupted when gunmen fired shots, resulting in injuries as attendees fled for safety.

In a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information, Orientation and Strategy, Mrs. Obiuwou Koku-Obiyai, the state government urged the Inspector-General of Police and state police authorities to investigate the incident and bring those responsible to justice. The government expressed concern that the shooting was not coincidental, referencing a prior warning from the organizers that "the good, the bad, and the ugly" would be present at the event. The government questioned how a rally expected to be peaceful turned violent and resulted in injuries.

The government highlighted that the rally violated guidelines for political activities as stipulated in the Electoral Act and by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). It also noted that the rally was held on the grounds of a religious organization, specifically the Church of God Mission Camp Ground in Igbogene, Yenagoa. The state government cautioned political groups against involving religious organizations in partisan activities that desecrate sacred places, warning that any religious organization breaching the law would face sanctions.

The government reiterated its commitment to maintaining peace and ensuring the security of all residents and property within the state. It emphasized the need for a swift investigation to hold accountable those responsible for the violence and urged the police to promptly identify and prosecute the culprits. Security operatives reportedly repelled the gunmen who invaded the venue, which had been organized to inaugurate the group’s executives. The shooting occurred shortly after the program commenced.