At least 10 people have been confirmed dead and several others injured after gunmen attacked a community meeting in Ogboji, Orumba South Local Government Area of Anambra State, officials said Tuesday.
The spokesperson for the Anambra State Police Command, DSP Tochukwu Ikenga, confirmed the casualty figure and condemned what he called a “barbarous and unprovoked” attack. The assault occurred on Monday evening, June 30, when the assailants stormed the venue in two SUVs and opened fire on attendees.
“The armed criminals came in two Sport Utility Vehicles (SUVs) and attacked the gathering of a group unprovoked, shooting sporadically,” Ikenga stated.
Authorities say nine individuals sustained serious injuries and were rushed to nearby hospitals. The deceased have since been moved to the morgue, while police say a joint security task force has been deployed to secure the area and investigate the attack.
Conflicting Death Toll
While police confirmed 10 fatalities, local residents allege the true number may be as high as 19. According to eyewitnesses, the gunmen targeted a gathering of individuals from Ebonyi State who were holding a community meeting in Ogboji.
“It was a coordinated attack. They came straight to the venue and started shooting. People ran in all directions,” said one local who spoke under anonymity due to fear of reprisal.
Possible Motives
The motive for the attack remains unclear, but residents have raised two main theories. Some speculate it could be linked to the renewed enforcement of the "sit-at-home" protest observed in parts of the Southeast every Monday, associated with pro-Biafra agitation.
Others suggest the violence may have stemmed from internal disputes among members of the group. One source claimed the gunmen demanded access to the minutes of the meeting before opening fire, hinting at possible intra-group conflict.
Police Investigation Underway
DSP Ikenga emphasized that investigations are ongoing and that efforts are being made to track and apprehend the perpetrators. Security forces continue to maintain a presence in the area to prevent further violence and to reassure the local population.
“We remain committed to ensuring the safety and security of all residents of Anambra State,” Ikenga said, adding that members of the public are encouraged to share any relevant information with law enforcement.
The attack adds to a worrying trend of escalating violence in parts of southeastern Nigeria, where clashes between security forces, separatist elements, and armed gangs have become increasingly frequent.
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