The President of the Association of Non-Indigenes in Anambra State (ANIAS), Prince Chigozie Nweke, has raised the alarm over the brutal killing of 13 Ebonyi indigenes by unknown gunmen during a community meeting in Ogboji, Orumba South Local Government Area of Anambra State.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, July 1, Prince Nweke described the attack as "barbaric, senseless, and deeply painful," calling on the Anambra State Government and security agencies to act swiftly in apprehending the perpetrators and ensuring justice for the victims.
“It was a black Monday for the Ebonyi community in Anambra. Thirteen of our brothers were gruesomely murdered in cold blood during a peaceful meeting at Ogboji,” Nweke said.
“We are demanding a thorough investigation and immediate action. This kind of evil must not be swept under the carpet," he added.
According to eyewitness accounts, the gunmen arrived at the meeting venue in two SUVs and opened fire indiscriminately on attendees between 6:00 and 7:00 p.m., after reportedly asking for the minutes of the meeting.
The motive remains unclear, with residents speculating that it could be linked to ongoing sit-at-home enforcements or internal group disagreements.
The Anambra State Police Command, through its spokesperson, DSP Tochukwu Ikenga, confirmed the attack, stating that 10 people were killed and 9 others injured.
However, local sources and community leaders insisted the death toll stands at 13.
Ikenga assured that police have intensified efforts to track down those responsible, adding that the scene has been cordoned off and investigations are underway.
As families mourn their loved ones, the incident has reignited fears and insecurity among non-indigenous residents in Anambra State, particularly from Ebonyi, with many calling for stronger protection measures and community engagement to prevent a recurrence.
