Gunmen in Nigeria’s southeastern Imo state recently executed a violent attack, blocking a major highway and resulting in casualties among commuters. Local law enforcement reported that three individuals were confirmed dead, while non-governmental organization Amnesty International suggested that the death toll could be as high as 30. The incident has raised concerns over safety and security in the region.
According to police spokesman Henry Okoye, the assault occurred early Thursday morning when suspected members of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) group blocked the Owerri-Okigwe highway. Eyewitness accounts indicated that the assailants, appearing in large numbers, opened fire indiscriminately on motorists. In addition to the fatalities, several more were wounded, and numerous vehicles were set ablaze during the chaos.
Amnesty International released a statement on social media platform X, asserting that their reports stemmed from multiple sources present at the scene, including hospitals, and emphasized the urgency of addressing the violent conflicts in the area. The Red Cross in Imo state corroborated claims of significant casualties but noted that the total number of deaths had yet to be confirmed. Their preliminary findings indicated that over 20 vehicles had been destroyed, exacerbating fears of ongoing violence and increased tensions in nearby communities.
In response to the attack, law enforcement engaged in a gunfight with the assailants, leading to the death of one suspect and the arrest of another. Police characterized the gunmen as “miscreants” exploiting the guise of freedom fighting, labeling their actions as terrorist activities. This incident unfolded concurrently with President Bola Tinubu’s visit to neighboring Anambra state for the launch of infrastructure projects, further highlighting the stark contrast between government activity and ongoing security challenges.
The IPOB has consistently denied involvement in such attacks, asserting that other criminal groups and political adversaries may be falsely using their name to carry out violence. The group’s founder, Nnamdi Kanu, remains on trial for terrorism-related charges in the capital, Abuja.
Amnesty International has called for a comprehensive investigation into the attack, urging authorities to hold the perpetrators accountable. The organization contends that the coordinated assault reflects a persistent failure of Nigerian officials to confront the escalating crisis in the southeastern region.
As communities grapple with the fallout of this attack, fears of further violence loom large, prompting calls for urgent action to restore safety and stability in a region already fraught with tension.
