From Emeka Chiaghanam, Awka
Hoodlums have reportedly killed and maimed numerous individuals in Ogwuaniocha community, located in the Ogbaru Local Government Area of Anambra State, as disclosed by protesting community members, primarily women. In the wake of this violence, houses were also damaged.
The source of insecurity in the community has been attributed to a criminal group known as the Lion Squad, held responsible for the abduction of their traditional ruler.
This oil-rich community expressed its dissatisfaction with the Anambra State government, alleging abandonment, and expressed concern over the disappearance of their kidnapped traditional ruler, Igwe Oliver Nnaji, since 2021.
Protesters, mainly women, took to the streets, carrying placards with various messages, denouncing the ongoing violence, abductions, and property destruction by hoodlums in the area. They highlighted that recent events in Ogwuaniocha have claimed numerous lives and left many others injured.
One of the protest leaders, Mrs. Nkemdilim Onwurah, explained that the recent attacks by the Lion Squad forced many residents to flee the community for safety. She also mentioned the influx of gunmen who found refuge in the area as security operations intensified in neighboring regions.
Furthermore, the protesters emphasized that the state government prioritized the protection of the area where an oil company operated, leaving the rest of the community vulnerable to criminal elements.
Another protester, Mrs. Cecilia Okonkwo, pointed out that criminals who had fled from Ihiala and Orlu areas were now camping in Ogwuaniocha, causing terror among the local population.
The most recent attack occurred between October 19 and October 20 when a combined team of terror gangs and the Lion Squad descended upon innocent citizens, beating them severely and leaving them for dead.
Ngozi Freda recalled the attack on the Igwe’s palace in November 2021, which resulted in the monarch’s kidnapping. She expressed the belief that the governor would address their concerns and provide the necessary support.
The Anambra State Police Public Relations Officer, Tochukwu Ikenga, confirmed that the police were investigating the complaints from the community and assured the public of the command’s commitment to protecting lives and properties in Anambra, including Ogwuaniocha.