We regret to inform you that we have reason to believe that a member of our staff, Mr. Nelson Ujeya, was involved in a security incident on Sunday evening. From available reports, Nelson was said to be in a convoy of boats, together with Bayelsa State Government representatives, Community Chiefs and a number of militants, when there was an exchange of gunfire between a Joint Task Force patrol and the militants. The reports confirm that a number of fatalities occurred in the exchange of fire.
Our investigations have not brought to light any conclusive information at this time about the whereabouts or condition of Nelson, or the Community Chiefs and Bayelsa State Government representatives. However, we are continuing to explore every possible avenue for reliable information about Nelson and the other civilians, and we hope to be able to ascertain the true position as soon as possible.
We are deeply concerned at this most unfortunate turn of events, and our thoughts and prayers are with Nelson and his family at this time. We are keeping them appraised of developments and all relevant information as it becomes available to us.
We request all staff to remain calm and to continue to exercise extra vigilance at all times. We will give you an update on the situation of Mr Nelson Ujeya as soon as we can.