By Adadareporters
It was bloodbath at Nibo, Anambra State on Sunday following an attack on innocent citizens, leading many to their untimely death.
The invaders were said to have arrived in a black Lexus SUV, and opened fire indiscriminately at an eatery in the community.
The crime scene is a few electric poles from the Governor’s Lodge, it was gathered.
Eyewitnesses said the attack occurred during the Onwa Asaa festival celebrations, a time meant for joy and unity, adding that at least a dozen people were confirmed dead, with fears that the death toll may rise.
According to one of them, “It was like a war zone. 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 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.
Meanwhile, the police have confirmed the attack. A statement by the police public relations officer, SP Tochukeu Ikenga, stated that, “The command is aware of a suspected cult-related clash on 20/10/2024 in Nibo, Awka South LG and the Commissioner of Police, CP Nnaghe Obono Itam, has 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.”
