By Victor Madu
The people of Umuoma Autonomous Community in Owerri West LGA of Imo State have deserted their area in fear of falling victim to the suspected clash involving cult groups in the area.
The clash which started on Thursday, 14th March, 2019, has resulted in the killings of over 12 persons and several others sustained high degrees of injuries.
Speaking to Daily Nigerian Horn, the Umuoma monarch, HRH Eze Morrison Ekeh, (Omadike) Monday affirmed that the people of the area are currently living in perplex worries and fears of the unknown.
He expressed dismay over the killings while describing it as unprecedented, barbaric, inhuman and unfortunate.
The monarch therefore called on the state government and security agencies to do the needful to arrest the situation before more casualties are recorded.
He also appealed to the people of the community to call their children and wards to order and to partner in the efforts to forestall the incidence.
His words, “I feel very sad about the killings. Sad in the sense these are promising young men who lost their lives instantly.
“I am not also happy that my community is where the whole thing took place. At the moment, everybody in my community is in fear.
“The killing is becoming very very disturbing. It is also worrisome how young boys carry guns and brandish them in the public recklessly and shooting carelessly.
He continued, “the security agencies and the government should do something about it.
“I want the Commissioner of Police to set up anti cult squad and establish their unit in my community.
“I equally have to warn parents to call their children and wards to order because we won’t look back to deal with anyone caught in this act no matter whose child he is.”
Meanwhile, when contacted, the Imo State Police Command through the Public Relations Officer, Orlando Ikokwu confirmed the incident.
He disclosed that over 10 persons have so far been arrested over the killings while investigation is still ongoing.
Nigerian Horn
