A wave of terror swept through Ochia community in Ohaji/Egbema Local Government Area of Imo State after gunmen stormed the area and killed a traditional ruler alongside five other residents in a violent afternoon attack that has deepened fears over rising insecurity in Nigeria’s South-east.
The victim, Eze Paulinus Ekwueme, the traditional ruler of Ochia Awarra community, was reportedly killed when armed men invaded the area on Friday and opened fire on residents. Security officials confirmed that the monarch and five others died in the attack.
Police spokesperson Henry Okoye said operatives received a distress alert from the Ohaji Police Division around 4:30 p.m., indicating that the community was under siege by suspected gunmen. Tactical units were immediately deployed to the scene.
Security teams later recovered burnt bodies of the victims after the attackers fled the area. The remains were evacuated and deposited at the Federal University Teaching Hospital in Owerri for preservation and autopsy.
Authorities say the identities of some of the victims are still being confirmed as investigations continue into the deadly incident. A full-scale manhunt has also been launched to track down those responsible.
The Commissioner of Police in Imo State, Audu Garba Bosso, visited the community alongside senior officers to assess the situation and reassure residents of ongoing efforts to restore calm. Additional security deployments have been made to prevent further attacks.
Police authorities described the incident as deeply unfortunate and assured the public that those behind the killings would be arrested and prosecuted. They also urged residents to support investigations by reporting suspicious movements.
The attack adds to a troubling pattern of violence targeting communities in the South-east, where insecurity has intensified in recent months and traditional rulers have increasingly become targets.
