Gunmen Launch Attack on Ogbaru Local Government Secretariat in Anambra State

Gunmen, reportedly numbering around 30, launched a brazen attack on the Ogbaru Local Government Secretariat in Anambra State early on Friday morning. The assailants set fire to several buildings, including a town hall designated for traditional rulers and various administrative facilities, marking the second assault on the Ogbaru LGA within two months.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Witnesses recounted that the hoodlums stormed the secretariat around 5 a.m., firing indiscriminately into the air, causing panic among local residents. Fortunately, no casualties have been reported from the latest incident. The attack has reignited fears over security in Ogbaru, especially following a recent incident in which a security guard was killed after sustaining bullet wounds during a prior gunman attack.

One source described the scene, stating, “Gunmen emerged from the bush, chanting as they approached the local government secretariat, shooting into the air. They trekked from their hideouts, reaching the Atani Magistrate Court nearby before setting buildings ablaze, including the main secretariat and those used by traditional rulers.” The attackers were reportedly thwarted by the arrival of security forces, who opened fire, prompting the gunmen to flee back into the surrounding bushes.

The escalating violence in the region has left residents increasingly concerned for their safety. The source continued, “A lot is happening, and the security situation is getting worse. Just yesterday, a security man known as CY died from a gunshot wound during a confrontation with the gunmen in the Amiyi community. Additionally, two young men were shot dead on August 5, and a retired policeman was beaten to death by the same gang just days ago.”

Superintendent of Police Tochukwu Ikenga, the spokesperson for the Anambra State Police, confirmed the attack and reported that a joint security operation is ongoing in the area. “The Commissioner of Police, Nnaghe Itam, has condemned the morning attack at the Ogbaru Local Government Headquarters. While some properties were destroyed, fortunately, no lives were lost,” Ikenga stated. He assured the public that security operatives are actively working to address the situation and that further developments will be communicated.

This attack follows a similar incident on June 15, 2024, when unidentified assailants on motorcycles attacked the Ogbaru LGA, causing significant damage and described by police as an act of cowardice.