Community laments alleged invasion by soldiers

The traditional ruler and members of Umuokwu Izombe in Oguta Local Government Area of Imo state has expressed shock over the alleged invasion of their community by soldiers on alleged reprisal attack. A detachment of soldiers on alleged reprisal over the killing of two of their colleagues by suspected members of the village, recently stormed […]

The traditional ruler and members of Umuokwu Izombe in Oguta Local Government Area of Imo state has expressed shock over the alleged invasion of their community by soldiers on alleged reprisal attack.

A detachment of soldiers on alleged reprisal over the killing of two of their colleagues by suspected members of the village, recently stormed the community. No fewer than 70 houses, 15 vehicles and 25 motorcycles were said to have been either burnt or destroyed in the incident.

The traditional ruler of Aborsi-Izombe, HRH Eze Pius Muforo, said the government should thoroughly investigate the main cause of the incident.

He said, contrary to reports, his house was spared, but the houses of his subjects were affected.

The Anambra State Correspondent of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), Francis Onyeukwu, lamented that soldiers burnt down his family’s house.

According to Onyeukwu, the raid has left the community traumatized as some of them now sleep outside with the attendant fear for their lives as a result of the insecurity ravaging the state.

While decrying the raid, Onyeukwu described it as “unwarranted”.

He said, “It’s just unfortunate what they have done to this peaceful community. They have rendered us homeless in our homeland.”

Other victims who spoke to our correspondent in separate interviews, described the action of the soldiers as devastating, saying that they incurred great losses as a result.

A victim, Mr Ifeanyichukwu Onyeukwu, who described the incident as a “tragedy” and a “big loss”, said the community had never experienced such an attack.

Another victim, Mr Victus Nwadikwa, a retired driver with the Court of Appeal, said he and his brothers lost three cars and two buildings to the attack.

Army’s Public Relations Officer (PRO), Capt. Joseph Akubo said he was yet to get details of the incident.