In a brutal attack that occurred in the early hours of Saturday, yet-to-be-identified gunmen killed five people, including a couple, and set several houses on fire in Ezinachi community, Okigwe Local Government Area, Imo State.
The victims include Emeka and Blessing Ezeagwula, Ejike Otuonye, Chidi Chineke, and a vigilante operative.
Emeka Ezeagwula, one of the deceased, was the Rebuild Imo coordinator in Okigwe LGA until his death. Rebuild Imo is a political organization linked to former Imo State governor Emeka Ihedioha.
Sources revealed that the assailants appeared to be targeting the newly appointed security leader of Okigwe LGA.
However, it remains unclear if the leader was caught in the attack or managed to escape, as his whereabouts are currently unknown.
Witnesses say the attackers opened fire and hurled explosives into houses upon arriving in the community, resulting in the deaths and injuries and extensive property damage.
The Imo State Police Command confirmed the attack to Okeomanews on Sunday in Owerri. Spokesperson Henry Okoye described the incident as “very unfortunate” and assured that a thorough investigation was underway.
He added, “The command is making significant progress in apprehending the hoodlums responsible for the attack to ensure they face the full wrath of the law.”
The Okigwe area has been plagued by insecurity marked by multiple killings, kidnappings, abductions of travelers, and armed robbery over the past few years.
These incidents have led to an economic downturn, forcing many indigenes and non-indigenes to relocate from the region amid ongoing insurgency.