The people of Obiakpu Autonomous Community in Ohaji/Egbema Local Government Area, Imo State, have appealed to the state government for immediate assistance, as unknown gunmen continue to terrorize the community.
In an interview with the press, the Eze-elect of Obiakpu, Ndubueze Nwokoma, revealed that the criminals appeared to be undeterred by the significant security presence in the area, which is known for its oil production activities and is home to several oil companies.
Ndubueze disclosed that the bandits have taken control of a specific area within the community, referred to as Ukwugba. He further explained that residents of Ukwugba have been forced to flee their homes, seeking refuge in neighboring communities after abandoning their belongings.
The attacks have reportedly been ongoing for about two weeks, and the community members are now urging Governor Hope Uzodinma to intervene swiftly to end the violence.
The Eze-elect shared his concern over the paradox of the heavy security presence in the region, which includes a duty post from the Nigerian Army, a police station, patrols by the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps, as well as personnel from the Department of State Services and local vigilantes. Despite these efforts, Ndubueze noted that Ukwugba has seen repeated killings over the past two weeks.
“There are indications that the bandits are operating close to the areas where these security forces are stationed,” Ndubueze said. He called on Governor Uzodinma to enhance security in Obiakpu Autonomous Community, particularly in Ukwugba, and to deploy additional security teams to tackle the escalating violence.
