Panic erupted in Onitsha on Tuesday, September 9, after operatives of the OCHA Brigade, a state-backed enforcement agency, allegedly opened fire at the Onitsha Main Market near Emeka Offor Plaza, killing four people, including a pregnant woman.
The OCHA Brigade, whose mandate includes enforcing environmental laws, maintaining order, and promoting public health, had reportedly entered the market to compel traders to clear goods from unauthorized areas.
Eyewitnesses said chaos ensued as shots were fired, leaving several people injured and causing widespread fear among market traders and shoppers.
Following the incident, residents took to the streets in protest, holding placards demanding an end to what they described as excessive force, with messages reading, “SOLUDO, stop killing us.”
