Ihiala, Anambra State – December 30, 2024
A wave of coordinated violence shook Ihiala Local Government Area on Monday, leaving the community in grief and disarray. The tragic series of events began around 8:00 AM when unidentified gunmen attacked local vigilante operatives at the Ihiala Local Government Secretariat. Two members of the Anambra Vigilante Group (AVG) were killed, and one remains critically injured in a nearby medical facility.
Just minutes after the initial attack, the same assailants reportedly stormed the Onuchukwu family residence in Umuike Ubahuekwem, where a gruesome massacre unfolded. Eight people, including security personnel, two vendors, and the prominent Chief (Engr.) Donatus Onuchukwu, were murdered. The Onuchukwu family, who were preparing for the funeral of their matriarch, now face unimaginable sorrow. Among the victims was the CEO of Oluebube Global Rental Services, a widely respected community member.
Adding to the town’s woes, a fire broke out hours later at Nkwogbe Market, razing goods and properties worth millions of naira. Although local residents and good Samaritans valiantly contained the blaze, the absence of a functional fire service station in the area exacerbated the damage.
In a statement issued by the Ihiala Progress Union, President-General Okey Ohagba described the events as “a black day for Ihiala.” He urged the state and federal governments to take immediate action to address the spiraling insecurity in the region. “We call on all relevant security formations to ensure the perpetrators of these dastardly acts do not go scot-free,” Ohagba said.
The Ihiala Town Union also expressed its condolences to the affected families and emphasized the need for unity and resilience among the community’s sons and daughters. “This is a time for sober reflection, not despair,” the statement added.
As Ihiala grieves the loss of its sons and daughters, it serves as a sombre reminder of the pressing need for security reforms and infrastructure development in the region.
Stay Updated with NjenjeMedia!
For the latest breaking news, updates and debates, join our NjenjeMedia News/TV channels and WhatsApp groups!
👉 WhatsApp Channel: https://shorturl.at/kV9n9
👉 Telegram Channel: https://shorturl.at/W6t6J
👉 WhatsApp Group 1: https://shorturl.at/eEmuA
👉 WhatsApp Group 2: https://shorturl.at/Vmwng
