Senator Tony Nwoye, representing Anambra North Senatorial District, has condemned the deadly gunmen attack on Ukpo and Abatete communities, which left four vigilantes dead and several others injured.
The senator described the incident, which occurred on Monday, as “senseless” and an act of violence that should never be condoned.
Gunmen Attack Vigilantes in Ukpo and Abatete
The attack targeted members of the Community Vigilante Services (AVS) in the Dunukofia and Idemili North local government areas of Anambra State.
Reports revealed that three vigilantes were killed in Ukpo, while one person died in Abatete. Additionally, seven others were injured during the assault. The gunmen also set fire to the vigilantes’ vehicle, further adding to the destruction.
Senator Nwoye Denounces Violence
In a statement released on the same day, Senator Nwoye condemned the violence and called it a “cowardly attempt” to instill fear among residents. He stated, “This heinous act resulted in the loss of lives, injuries, and destruction of operational vehicles.”
“The people responsible for this act must understand that violence only brings more suffering to our communities. We cannot continue to harm our own under the guise of political demands,” Nwoye continued.
The senator referred to the ongoing demand for the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), as the likely motivation behind the attack. While acknowledging the frustrations surrounding Kanu’s detention, he emphasized that violence would not achieve peace or justice.
Call for Dialogue and Unity
Senator Nwoye also urged Southeast governors, leaders, and stakeholders to come together and push for a peaceful resolution regarding Kanu’s release. He called for a united delegation to approach President Bola Tinubu to engage in discussions aimed at resolving the situation.
“Collective engagement and dialogue are crucial to restoring sanity and order to our region,” Nwoye said. He stressed the importance of working towards solutions that prioritize peace, rather than escalating violence.
Eyewitness Accounts of the Attack
Eyewitnesses described the attack as chaotic and frightening. One witness recalled seeing the gunmen shouting “No Biafra, No Freedom” while firing indiscriminately at the vigilantes.
“They came from nowhere, shooting sporadically and chanting ‘No Biafra, no freedom,’” said the witness. “People started running for safety as the gunmen stormed the Ukpo roundabout.”
The gunmen specifically targeted a Toyota Sienna minibus, which was carrying the vigilante members when they opened fire. The vehicle was also set on fire during the attack.
Narrow Escapes and Injuries
In addition to the deaths, two prominent individuals narrowly escaped death during the attack. The President General of Ukpo town and a member of the vigilante group were both injured during the assault. They sustained varying degrees of bullet wounds but managed to survive the deadly encounter.
Local law enforcement has launched an investigation into the incident. The Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, confirmed that the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Ukpo is leading the investigation to bring the perpetrators to justice.
Governor Soludo’s Position on Sit-At-Home Orders
This attack comes in the wake of Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s recent directive that all markets in Anambra should remain open and that the public should not adhere to the sit-at-home orders enforced by criminal elements.
Governor Soludo had called for an end to the illegal sit-at-home orders that disrupt economic activities in the state. Reports indicated that Ukpo traders complied with this directive, choosing to open their businesses despite the threats.
However, the gunmen’s actions on Monday show that the state remains vulnerable to violent forces seeking to impose their will on the people.
Widespread Concerns Over Security
The attack has sent shockwaves through the affected communities. Residents of Ukpo and Abatete are expressing deep concern over their safety, fearing further violence if security forces are unable to protect them from armed groups.
One local resident said, “We are living in fear. The gunmen came without warning, and we had no way to protect ourselves.”
Solidarity with Victims and Families
In his statement, Senator Nwoye expressed his heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and the people of Ukpo and Abatete. He assured the affected communities of his support during this difficult time.
“My heart goes out to the Ukpo and Abatete communities who have suffered immense loss. I stand in solidarity with the families of the victims,” Nwoye said.
He also emphasized the need for peaceful resolutions, urging all leaders in the region to foster understanding and cooperation. “We owe it to ourselves, our communities, and future generations to work together and ensure a culture of peace and understanding prevails,” Nwoye concluded.
