Tears, grief, and anger marked the visit of residents from Lilu community in Ihiala Local Government Area of Anambra State to the Government House, Akwa, as they demanded urgent intervention following a devastating attack on their village.
The delegation, which included youths, elderly men, and women, arrived in solemn silence, their serious expressions reflecting the gravity and urgency of their mission. According to their spokesperson, who identified himself only as Emeka for security reasons, some members of the community had to halt the burial of two kinsmen when they received news that two others, who had sustained severe machete injuries during last Sunday’s attack, had died while receiving treatment in the hospital.
Emeka briefed the Secretary to the Anambra State Government, Solo Chukwulobelu, on the community’s ordeal, revealing that violent attacks on Lilu have been occurring for years. In an earlier attack, 11 residents were killed, while nine more lost their lives in last Sunday’s massacre. This brings the total number of fatalities in recent violence to 20, leaving families devastated and the community in fear.
The residents appealed directly to Governor Chukwuma Soludo for immediate assistance. They described daily life in Lilu as a constant struggle, where abductions, killings, and disappearances have become routine. Emeka revealed that approximately 85 per cent of the community’s population has been forced to relocate to neighboring towns, leaving their homes, farms, and livelihoods behind.
Protesters carried placards with messages such as “Soludo rescue us,” “Lilu is on the verge of extinction,” and “Is Lilu actually in Anambra State,” underscoring the urgency of their appeal and the depth of their desperation.
The palace of their traditional ruler, Igwe Godson Onyediri, also appealed for immediate intervention. The monarch condemned the brutal killing and decapitation of Venerable Gabriel Obiesie’s wife, who was burnt alongside the St Andrew’s Anglican Church parsonage, their children, vehicles, and entire property, describing the act as sacrilegious, inhuman, and an abomination.
Chukwulobelu commended the community for maintaining a peaceful approach despite extreme provocation. He appealed for their continued patience and understanding, assuring them that Governor Soludo remains committed to securing lasting peace in Lilu and other affected areas across Anambra State.
The Secretary collected all placards from the community members and promised to present their grievances directly to the governor later in the day. Community members, while deeply anguished, expressed hope that their appeals would translate into tangible action, including improved security, protection of lives and property, and swift justice for those responsible for the attacks.
The incident highlights ongoing security challenges in parts of Anambra State, raising urgent questions about community protection, conflict resolution, and the need for a stronger law enforcement presence in vulnerable areas. Residents of Lilu continue to plead for government intervention before further lives are lost and the community suffers irreversible devastation.
Comments
Post a Comment