The community of Ifite-Awka, Awka South Local Government Area of Anambra State, was thrown into chaos late Wednesday when unidentified hoodlums launched a violent attack, leaving at least four people feared dead and several others traumatized. The attackers reportedly invaded multiple locations, firing sporadically into the air, causing panic among residents and traders.
Panic and Loss of Lives
Eyewitnesses reported that the assailants attacked several notable locations, including:
- Book Foundation Junction
- Ukwu Aki Bus Stop
- “B” Bus Stop
- Commissioners’ Quarters
- The Bamboo Area
The attack, which began around 7 pm, left three people dead at Book Foundation Junction and one at Ukwu Aki Bus Stop. An eyewitness described the scene as chaotic, with traders hastily locking their shops and residents running for cover.
A grocery trader who witnessed the incident recounted, “It was a panic situation when the hoodlums suddenly arrived and started shooting into the air. They shot and killed three people at Book Foundation Junction and another at Ukwu Aki Bus Stop. Everyone fled for their lives, and as of today, many shops remain closed.”
Kidnapping at Commissioners’ Quarters
The hoodlums also targeted a popular hotel in Commissioners’ Quarters, where they reportedly kidnapped the manager and two others. The kidnappers initially demanded a ransom of ₦20 million but later reduced it to ₦12 million, according to sources within the hotel.
An anonymous hotel worker confirmed the kidnapping but declined to provide further details, citing restrictions on speaking to the media. The whereabouts of the abducted individuals remain unknown.
Community in Fear
Residents expressed their fears over the escalating violence. One resident, Chibuike, noted the toll the attack has taken on the community: “About three people were killed at Ifite yesterday night—one at ‘B’ Bus Stop and the others at Book Foundation Junction. They also struck at a hotel in Commissioners’ Quarters, kidnapped three people, and left with their cars. This morning, one person was shot dead around the Ukwu Aki area. This December is becoming very bloody. May God have mercy.”
Security Response
The incident has highlighted growing security concerns in Ifite-Awka and surrounding areas. When contacted, Anambra State Police Public Relations Officer, Tochukwu Ikenga, responded, “Thank you for this information, but if you know the relatives of these victims, let them come forward, please.”
The statement reflects an apparent gap in immediate security responses, prompting calls for more proactive measures to safeguard lives and property.
Impact on Community Life
The attack has left a significant impact on Ifite-Awka:
- Business Disruptions: Many traders remain reluctant to reopen their shops due to fear of further attacks.
- Community Tensions: The violence has created a climate of uncertainty, with residents increasingly cautious about their movements.
- Kidnapping Crisis: The abduction of the hotel manager and others underscores the growing threat of ransom-driven crimes in the area.
Calls for Action
The gruesome events in Ifite-Awka have sparked outrage among residents, with many calling for enhanced security measures, including:
- Increased police presence in vulnerable areas.
- Improved intelligence gathering to prevent further attacks.
- Swift action to locate and rescue the kidnapped victims.
Conclusion
The attack on Ifite-Awka is a stark reminder of the urgent need for heightened security in Anambra State. As the community mourns its losses, there is a pressing demand for immediate intervention by security forces to restore safety and prevent further violence. For now, residents are left grappling with fear and uncertainty as they hope for justice and an end to the bloodshed.
