Anambra Central Senatorial Zone was rocked by deadly attacks on Monday morning as gunmen reportedly enforcing the banned sit-at-home order targeted several communities, leaving at least five people dead and others injured.
The attacks, which occurred between 8 a.m. and 10 a.m., affected the towns of Abatete, Abagana, and Ukpo, causing panic and heightening tensions in the area.
In Abatete, the assailants ambushed the town’s President-General and his security team, killing three vigilante members and critically injuring the community leader. The President-General was rushed to a nearby hospital for urgent treatment. The motive for the attack remains unclear, but authorities suspect it may be linked to efforts to enforce the outlawed sit-at-home directive.
Similar violence was reported in Abagana and Ukpo. In Ukpo, a vigilante member and a motorcycle rider were shot dead near the roundabout in Dunukofia Local Government Area. Witnesses described the incidents as unprovoked, leaving residents fearful of further violence.
Anambra State Police Command confirmed the attacks but noted that investigations are ongoing. “Details are still sketchy, but our officers are on the scene to investigate,” said a police spokesperson. “We are committed to uncovering the full circumstances surrounding these incidents.”
The attacks underscore persistent security challenges in the region, with residents calling for increased protection to prevent further loss of lives and property.
