Tragedy struck in Nibo, Awka South Local Government Area of Anambra State on Sunday as a brutal attack by masked gunmen claimed numerous lives during the Onwa Asaa festival, a traditional community celebration.
The assailants, reportedly driving a black Lexus SUV, stormed an eatery in the community and opened fire indiscriminately, leaving several people dead. At the time of reporting, at least 10 people had lost their lives in the attack.
Eyewitnesses described the scene as chaotic, with festival-goers fleeing for safety amidst the gunfire.
“It felt like a war zone. The gunmen just stormed the place and started shooting everywhere. People were running for their lives, screaming and crying. It was absolute chaos,” one witness recounted.
The motive behind the attack remains unclear, but community members are calling for swift action from the authorities to restore peace and ensure security.
“We urge the government to take immediate action. We cannot continue to live in fear. We need peace and security in our community. What was supposed to be a joyful celebration has been marred by violence and bloodshed,” a local resident lamented.
Police React
Anambra State Police Command has confirmed that the recent violent attack in Nibo, Awka South Local Government Area, during the Onwa Asaa traditional festival, is suspected to be a result of a cult-related clash
State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Tochukwu Ikenga, attributed the violence to a suspected dispute between rival cult groups. In response, Anambra State Commissioner of Police, CP Nnaghe Obono Itam, has ordered the immediate deployment of additional police operatives to the affected area to restore calm and prevent further violence.
Ikenga noted that while preliminary details surrounding the attack remain unclear, the police are urging witnesses and residents with any information on the perpetrators to come forward. He emphasized that all information would be treated with the utmost confidentiality.
“The command is working diligently to uncover the full details of the incident, and we call on witnesses to assist in identifying those responsible,” Ikenga said. “The Commissioner of Police has also ensured that additional personnel are deployed to maintain law and order in the community.”
