Residents of Ekwulobia in Aguata Local Government Area of Anambra State were thrown into panic on Wednesday morning as gunmen invaded the community, firing shots indiscriminately and wreaking havoc.
According to The Nation, eyewitnesses said the attackers, clad in black mafia-style clothing, arrived in multiple Sienna vehicles and opened fire, sending residents fleeing in different directions for safety. The attackers reportedly torched several vehicles and left multiple people injured.
“The shooting was so intense. People were running and screaming. I saw some injured and bleeding. Shops closed immediately, and many families have not returned home,” a resident, who asked not to be named for fear of reprisal, told The Nation.
Another source blamed the attack on suspected Biafra agitators and criticised the failure of the state’s security initiatives, including Operation Agunechemba and Udo Ga Achi.
“These armed men are stronger than the security forces we have. Our people should remain indoors until the situation is under control. Governor Soludo must act fast to address these recurring attacks,” the source added. He also linked the violence to recent comments allegedly made by the governor in the United States, where he was reported to have accused individuals of Igbo descent of fueling insecurity in the Southeast.
Confirming the attack, the spokesperson for the Anambra State Police Command, DSP Tochukwu Ikenga, said two civilians lost their lives, while one of the attackers was gunned down during the confrontation. He also disclosed that four vehicles used by the assailants were recovered at the scene.
“Our Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, is on top of the situation. He’s a field officer and won’t allow criminals to dominate Anambra State. Our operatives have taken control of the area and restored calm,” Ikenga assured.
The police said investigations are ongoing as patrols have been intensified in the region to forestall further attacks.
