Unknown gunmen have invaded Akpoha Community in Afikpo Local Government Area of Ebonyi State and killed three persons.
Confirming the attack, Kenneth Orji Obasi, Coordinator of Amoha Development Centre, disclosed that the gunmen invaded the community on May 25, 2024 at about 11:00pm and shot three people dead.
According to the Coordinator, the victims of the attack are Egwu Nicholas Nwocha, Emmanuel Nwocha and Blessing Orie Inya.
He regretted intense fear and anxiety currently in the community following the attack and pledged to synergize with security agencies to apprehend the culprits as well as prevent reoccurrence.
The Coordinator narrated that, “On the night of May 25, 2024, at approximately 11:00 pm, an attack by unidentified gunmen took place in Akpoha, a community in Ebonyi State, Nigeria. The assailants opened fire, resulting in the tragic loss of three lives: Egwu Nicholas Nwocha, Emmanuel Nwocha, and Blessing Orie Inya.
“This incident has deeply shocked the local community, raising concerns about security and safety in the locality.
“The victims of this heinous attack were community members, except Blessing who hails from the Ozizza community in the same Afikpo, engaged in their night activities when the attack occurred. Their deaths have left their families and the community in profound grief.
“According to eyewitnesses, the gunmen arrived in the community on two motorcycles under the cover of darkness and began shooting indiscriminately. The attack seemed unprovoked and the motive behind it remains unclear. The gunmen swiftly fled the scene before the arrival of local security forces.
“The police and I (coordinator) have deposited the bodies of the victims to the mortuary and law enforcement agencies have promptly initiated an investigation into the incident.”
He added that, “Security has been intensified in Akpoha and surroundings to avert further occurrence. I call on residents to stay calm and report any suspicious activities. However, the attack has instilled fear and anxiety among the residents of Akpoha, Afikpo.
“In tandem with the Ebonyi State Government’s zero tolerance to criminalities, I condemn the attack and express my deepest condolences to the families of the deceased.
I vow to intensify efforts in collaboration with the Nigeria Police Force to apprehend the attackers and prevent similar incidents in the future.
“This attack by unknown gunmen is a tragic event that highlights the ongoing security challenges in our locality. As investigations continue, the resilience and cooperation of the community with law enforcement agencies will be crucial in addressing these issues and restoring peace,” he said.
