Shock in Bayelsa: Gov Douye Diri’s JTF Storms Ogboinbiri, Uncovers Guns, Live Ammunition and Charms in ‘Lion Face’ Hideout as Crisis Explodes
By Passman Akpos
Tension has escalated in Ogboinbiri community, Southern Ijaw Local Government Area of Bayelsa State, following a major security operation by the Joint Task Force (JTF) reportedly deployed by Governor Douye Diri to restore peace in the troubled riverine community.
According to sources within the community, the JTF stormed the residence of one Daumie-Ebi Okia, popularly known as “Lion Face,” who has been accused of being one of the major sponsors of the prolonged Ogboinbiri crisis, native wars, and the alleged masterminding of moves to remove the Paramount Ruler of the community.
During the operation, security operatives reportedly recovered four guns, live ammunition, charms, and other dangerous materials suspected to be linked to violent activities in the area. Several of his associates were arrested, while Lion Face himself reportedly escaped before security operatives could apprehend him.
Residents alleged that some of those arrested are linked to private security outfits and surveillance operations in the area, including personnel connected to Tantita Security, Labrador, Darlon Security, and Face and Face Security, all allegedly coordinated by another influential figure in the crisis, Tari Okoso.
Community insiders claimed that the JTF, initially deployed for peacekeeping, acted after receiving intelligence about ongoing illegal activities and stockpiling of weapons at the residences of both Tari Okoso and Lion Face.
The development comes amid an already tense atmosphere following the killing of Mr. Denyefa G. Ofolo on April 28, 2026, an incident that has further deepened divisions in the community.
Meanwhile, a public notice has been issued to counter what was described as a “false press statement” released by the Chairman of Southern Ijaw LGA, Hon. Target Segibo, through his Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Easterday Ayibatari, concerning the circumstances surrounding the violence.
The notice alleged that the root of the crisis lies in the unresolved chieftaincy dispute in Ogboinbiri, which has continued to divide the community and fuel violent confrontations.
According to the clarification, the unrest began on April 27 when Mr. Maxwell Oseke allegedly led a confrontation against the Youth President, Mr. Experience Pere, over old scrap iron pipes previously replaced by Renaissance Africa Energy Co. Ltd. The Youth President had reportedly obtained approval from the company to use the discarded materials for community development.
However, Oseke allegedly accused him of pipeline vandalism and mobilized armed supporters to attack him using cutlasses, bottles, and other dangerous weapons. Community youths reportedly intervened and prevented the assault.
The statement further alleged that later that night, police officers stationed in the community escorted Maxwell Oseke and his associates to destroy houses belonging to perceived political opponents of his elder brother, Benson Okosughe, who is currently under suspension and facing legal battles over alleged constitutional violations.
Retaliatory destruction of properties allegedly followed from opposing youths.
On April 28, Denyefa G. Ofolo, said to be returning from work, was allegedly attacked and killed by Maxwell Oseke and his group. Community members expressed outrage that no arrests have yet been made in connection with the killing.
As tension continues to rise, residents are calling on Governor Douye Diri and security agencies to ensure justice, restore peace, and prevent further bloodshed in Ogboinbiri.
More details are expected as investigations continue.
