Gunmen numbering over 20 have reportedly attacked the people of Ukwa Ngbo in the Ohaukwu local government area of Ebonyi State, killing many residents.
It was gathered that the incident occurred on Monday afternoon.
A member of the community who confirmed the attack to our correspondent said the community suspected that the attackers were from neighbouring Agila in the Ado local government area of Benue State.
The source who did not want his name mentioned recalled that the community had been enmeshed in a protracted boundary dispute with the Agila people.
“The gunmen were many, and they were shooting sporadically. People ran helter-skelter. In the end, many people were reported dead, while some were declared missing. It was discovered that the attackers abducted some of the people
“I can’t confirm any figure now, but that will be settled before the end of today,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Chairman of the Ohaukwu local government area, Omekannaya Odah, has confirmed the attack.
Odah, in a statement Tuesday morning, said, “Ohaukwu Local Government Council has received with concern a report of the security breaches and attack against the innocent people of Ojiogu and Okpochiri Ukwagba Ngbo on Monday, the 27th of June, 2022. The Council condemned the incident in the strongest terms and reassures all that no stones will be left unturned to unravel the true circumstances that led to such an unwarranted attack and loss of lives and properties. Council has liaised with appropriate security agents to immediately move into the troubled area while working assiduously with the relevant stakeholders with a view to ensuring a quick return of peace and normalcy to Ukwagba.”
