Residents of Imezi-Owa community in Ezeagu Local Government Area of Enugu State have raised concerns over alleged destruction and displacement following a reported military operation carried out in the area on May 6.
The operation, which was reportedly targeted at armed elements operating within the community, has continued to generate reactions amid allegations that homes were burnt and villagers forced to flee for safety.
A legal practitioner and public affairs commentator, Cyril N Orogwu, expressed concern over the development, describing the reports emerging from the community as disturbing and deserving of urgent public scrutiny.
In a statement made available to journalists, Orogwu said recurring allegations of civilian suffering during security operations across parts of the country had continued to raise questions about accountability and the protection of innocent residents.
According to him, no society can thrive where citizens live in fear of both criminal elements and security operatives charged with protecting them.
“The disturbing reports from Imezi-Owa should trouble every conscience. When operations end but communities are left in ashes, serious questions must be asked,” he stated.
He called for an open and independent investigation into the allegations surrounding the operation, insisting that transparency remained critical in addressing public concerns and restoring confidence in security institutions.
“If the allegations are false, there must be a transparent investigation to clear the air. If they are true, then silence becomes complicity,” he added.
Orogwu further argued that the Nigerian Constitution does not permit collective punishment under any circumstance, warning that security operations conducted without accountability could erode public trust and deepen fear among citizens.
He stressed that security efforts must be guided by respect for human rights and the rule of law, noting that force without accountability could amount to oppression.
The legal practitioner also urged relevant authorities to ensure that the voices and concerns of affected residents were not ignored, maintaining that justice and protection of civilians must remain central in all security operations.
As of the time of filing this report, there had been no official response from military authorities regarding the allegations surrounding the operation in the community.
