Tragedy struck in Nibo, Anambra State, today, October 20, as scores of innocent lives were lost in a brutal and senseless attack.
The perpetrators, reportedly arriving in a black Lexus SUV, stormed an eatery in the community and opened fire indiscriminately, leaving a trail of death and destruction.
The crime scene is a few electric poles from the Governor’s Lodge, where the state governor, Prof Chukwuma Soludo, resides.
According to eyewitnesses who spoke to the media, the attack occurred during the Onwa Asaa festival celebrations, a time meant for joy and unity.
At least a dozen people were confirmed dead, with fears that the death toll may rise.
“It was like a war zone,” an eyewitness described. “The gunmen came out of nowhere, shooting everywhere. People were running for their lives, screaming and crying. It was chaos.”
The motive behind the attack remains unclear, but authorities have been urged to launch a thorough investigation.
The people are reeling from the shock of these tragic events.
The festivals, meant to bring people together, have been marred by violence and bloodshed.
“We are devastated,” said a local resident. “How can someone do this to us during our celebration? It’s heartbreaking.”
The community is demanding justice for the victims and their families.
“We urge the government to take immediate action,” said a community leader. “We cannot continue to live in fear. We need peace and security.”
The police and other security agencies have been deployed to the area to investigate the incident.
Below is police reaction
SUSPECTED CULT-RELATED CLASH IN NIBO: CP ITAM ORDERS DEPLOYMENT OF ADDITIONAL OPERATIVES IN THE AREA
_Calls on witnesses to volunteer information for necessary action_
The Command is aware of a suspected cult-related clash today 20/10/2024 in Nibo, Awka South LG and the Commissioner of Police, CP Nnaghe Obono Itam have ordered immediate deployment of additional operatives to the area for necessary action.
Preliminary reports of the incidents are still sketchy as the Command calls on the witnesses of this incident to volunteer information that will help to identify the perpetrators for possible arrest. Be assured that information sent in this regard shall be treated with utmost confidentiality. You can call the Command Control Room at *07039194332* or the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) at *08039334002*
Further development shall be communicated, please
*SP Tochukwu Ikenga*
Police Public Relations Officer,
Anambra State Police Command.
Awka.
Source/The Razor