Bullet-riddled terror descended on Amakohia-Ubi, Owerri West LGA, Imo State, Wednesday evening, as gunmen believed to be armed herders stormed the community at around 6:30 pm. A local vigilante commander, Monday Nwaozuzu—widely known as Ojo Ola—was shot dead during the attack, while several others were reported missing or wounded, prompting mass panic and a full-scale flight of residents.
Witnesses say the vigilante group had tried to intercept the herders as they invaded farmland adjacent to the village. But the assailants opened fire, striking Ojo Ola and scattering the others. One resident, who gave his name as Mr Paul, described the aftermath as chaotic: “The dead, wounded, and missing persons are all members of our community vigilante group. At least three members were caught in the clash.”
As darkness fell, terrified villagers abandoned their homes and trekked into neighbouring communities, seeking refuge from further bloodshed. Makeshift camps formed quickly, with elders expressing fears that the attackers could return under cover of night.
Attempts to reach Imo State Police spokesman Henry Okoye by close of reporting were unsuccessful. A security source, speaking on condition of anonymity, said patrols had been deployed, but response teams remained cautious to avoid further civilian casualties.
The killing of Ojo Ola—whose leadership kept local herder-farmer tensions in check—has shaken the community to its core. Sceptics say recent clashes over grazing land left tensions simmering, and now, many fear the attack marks a dangerous escalation of the crisis in Southeast Nigeria.
Local chiefs are demanding immediate military intervention and the deployment of the Rapid Response Squad to restore order. They warn that without urgent action, the region could become a flashpoint for broader communal violence.
As Imo reels from the fallout, residents are urging governor Hope Uzodimma to lead a swift and firm response—one that safeguards rural communities, punishes perpetrators, and restores fragile peace along herder–farmer frontlines.
