The Rivers State Police Command has launched an investigation into the alleged attack and burning of the family residence of an African Democratic Congress member, Isaiah Madubochi, in Omuoko village, Aluu, Ikwerre Local Government Area of the state.

The incident occurred in the early hours of Wednesday, barely 24 hours after campaigns officially commenced for the 2027 presidential and National Assembly elections.

The command’s spokesperson, ASP Agabe Blessing, confirmed the incident on Thursday, saying, “Investigation is ongoing to ascertain the cause of the fire and alleged attack in that community.”

It was gathered that more than five armed men allegedly stormed the residence, demanding to see Madubochi, who was not at home. The assailants reportedly ransacked the compound, looted property belonging to the family and tenants, before setting parts of the building ablaze and fleeing.

Madubochi’s mother, Uchechi, alleged that the attackers were searching for her son after he hosted an ADC meeting at the family compound the previous day.

“They asked why my son did not join them instead of joining another party. They broke the house, set fire, carried my mattress, my television, fridge and generator, and started shooting,” she said.

A tenant who spoke anonymously alleged that the attackers identified themselves as security personnel before gaining access to the building, breaking doors and windows and setting it ablaze.

Another tenant, who operates a Point of Sale business, alleged that the assailants stole some of his money and assaulted members of his family.

“I have a four-month-old baby. I didn’t sleep. The place is burnt and we don’t have anywhere to go to,” he said.

Reacting, the Chairman of Ikwerre Local Government Area, Charles Nwobodo, condemned the incident and pledged to work with security agencies to identify those responsible.

“If it is political according to them, I totally condemn that, where our people will lose their houses and other properties in the name of politics. That is unacceptable in Ikwerre Local Government,” he said.

Meanwhile, the ADC state publicity secretary, Chizi Enyi, described the incident as a targeted attack on the party’s members and called for an immediate investigation.

“Our members have been threatened, intimidated and attacked for exercising their constitutional right to associate and participate in political activities,” Enyi said.

He added that the party’s governorship candidate and state chairman had visited the scene, urging the police and other security agencies to identify those behind the attack.

The party said it remained committed to peaceful political activities and would not support retaliation or vigilantism.