A tragic scene unfolded on Thursday evening, June 26, 2025, near the Abia State University (ABSU) Uturu campus, as a commercial motorcycle rider was shot dead while attempting to escape from armed robbers. The incident, which happened along the busy Uturu-Afikpo Road, has left residents and students in shock.
Eyewitnesses said the unidentified Okada rider was trying to flee the area after sensing danger when gunmen suspected to be highway robbers opened fire. The victim died instantly after sustaining gunshot wounds to the chest, while several commuters abandoned their vehicles and fled into the bush for safety.
Local traders and passersby who witnessed the attack described hearing multiple gunshots as the armed gang emerged from the nearby forest, blocking the road and targeting motorists and cyclists. The operation, which lasted about 20 minutes, caused gridlock and widespread panic along the highway.
Students of ABSU, many of whom frequently use the road, are calling on state authorities to deploy more security personnel to the area. The Abia State Police Command confirmed the incident on Friday, June 27, saying an investigation is underway to track down the perpetrators.
Community leaders in Uturu and Okigwe have condemned the attack, describing it as one of many recent violent incidents along the Afikpo-Uturu route. Some residents claim this stretch has become a deadly hotspot for robberies and kidnappings in recent months.
Relatives of the slain Okada rider, who visited the scene shortly after police evacuated the body, called for immediate government action to end the rising insecurity. Youth groups in the area are also threatening to stage protests if visible security measures are not deployed within the week.
As investigations continue, the police have urged anyone with useful information to contact the nearest police station. Meanwhile, ABSU students and Uturu residents remain fearful, with many avoiding night travel on the route until further notice.
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