One Feared Dead As Gunmen Attack Ebonyi Community

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Gunmen numbering over 20 reportedly attacked residents of Ukwagba Ngbo in Ohaukwu local government area of Ebonyi State, leaving at least one person dead.

The Nation reported that the incident occurred on Monday afternoon, June 17. Two villages Ojiugo and Okpochiri were affected by the attacks with at least one person confirmed dead by residents.

A member of the community, who confirmed the attack alleged that the attackers were from neighbouring Agila in Ado local government area of Benue state.

The community had been enmeshed in a protracted boundary dispute with the Agila people.

The resident said;

“The gunmen were many and they were shooting sporadically. People ran helter skelter. In the end, many persons are feared dead while some were declared missing. It was discovered that the attackers abducted some of the people”

Chairman of Ohaukwu local government area, Omekannaya Odah, confirmed the attack in a statement.

It read;

“Ohaukwu Local Government Council has received with concern, 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 condemn the incident in the strongest terms and reassure all that no stones will be left unturned to unravel the true circumstances that led to such 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 ensure a quick return of peace and normalcy to Ukwagba.”