Anambra State Residents in Distress as Gunmen Strike at New Yam Festival

Anambra State, known as the “Light of the Nation,” has been plunged into a state of fear and sorrow following a gruesome attack by suspected cultists during the annual New Yam Festival in Nibo, Awka South Local Government Area. The celebration, traditionally a time of joy and thanksgiving, turned tragic as bloodthirsty gunmen opened fire at a popular drinking bar near Oye Nwochichi Market. At least 13 lives were claimed, including eight people killed instantly at the festival venue. The attackers continued their rampage, targeting another location near Eke Nibo Market, leaving a trail of sorrow.

The New Yam Festival attack was not an isolated incident. On the same day, gunmen also struck Nodu-Okpuno, another community in Awka South, killing three more victims. These brazen assaults occurred disturbingly close to the Governor’s Lodge and the Anambra State Police Command, raising concerns about the effectiveness of security operations in the state. Residents are increasingly distressed by the violent clashes between rival cult groups, which have claimed over 20 lives since Easter Sunday, further shattering the peace and safety of communities.

Escalating Violence and Kidnappings: Anambra State Under Siege

Anambra State is not only grappling with cult-related killings but has also become a hotspot for kidnappings and violent crimes. In recent weeks, kidnappers have intensified their activities, targeting government officials, businessmen, priests, and even sports journalists. Two weeks ago, tension soared when news broke that a group of sports journalists traveling through Isseke-Orlu Road in Ihiala Local Government Area were kidnapped. While six were rescued, three were killed, and one remains missing.

This alarming trend has spread across the state, from rural communities to major commercial centers, where economic activities have come to a standstill due to fear of attacks. Border communities, such as Ihiala and agrarian towns, have become breeding grounds for these nefarious activities. Despite efforts by security operatives, kidnappers and gunmen continue to operate with little resistance, forcing residents to live in constant fear and panic.

Insecurity Near the Governor’s Lodge: A Growing Concern in Anambra State

The proximity of these violent incidents to the Governor’s Lodge and the operational headquarters of the Anambra State Police Command has raised serious concerns. Despite being close to high-security zones, communities like Nibo and Nodu-Okpuno have become hotbeds for cult-related violence. The lack of adequate security measures and the inability to curb these crimes have left many residents questioning the effectiveness of the state’s security apparatus.

While Anambra’s Governor, Chukwuma Soludo, made security a top priority upon assuming office in 2022, his efforts have so far yielded limited results. The governor’s call for dialogue with agitators and promises of economic empowerment have not deterred these groups from continuing their violent activities. Residents and stakeholders are urging the state government to overhaul the security system and adopt a more strategic, intelligence-driven approach to combat the growing menace.

Calls for Security Reforms Amid Rising Fear

As the violence continues, community leaders and security experts are calling for urgent reforms to address the rising insecurity in Anambra State. Dr. Clement Aniogwu, Coordinator of the South East Security Forum (SESF), revealed that despite knowing the locations of the criminals’ camps, security operatives have been unable to dislodge them. He attributed this to possible insider collusion within the security forces, which allows hoodlums to evade capture. Dr. Aniogwu emphasized the need for a technology-driven security strategy and greater collaboration with local communities to tackle the crisis.

An 80-year-old community leader, Tobias Ijeh, echoed these sentiments, expressing frustration over the continuous attacks under the guise of a secessionist movement. He noted that while the dream of Biafra remains far from realization, the so-called agitators are wreaking havoc on the very people they claim to liberate. He described how these criminals enforce sit-at-home orders and extort money from residents, turning once-thriving communities into ghost towns. Many residents, particularly in border communities, feel abandoned by the authorities and are demanding swift action to restore peace.