Oguta, Imo State – Tragedy struck the Agwa community in the Oguta Local Government Area of Imo State as suspected armed herdsmen launched a deadly attack, leaving several people dead and many others injured, including a pregnant woman now battling for her life.
The woman, identified as Joy Osita Achugwo, sustained gunshot wounds and is currently receiving treatment at a local hospital, according to Sahara Reporters.
The gruesome attack, which occurred earlier this week, has triggered widespread outrage, with local leaders and residents demanding swift government intervention. Among the first to visit the survivors was Oguta LGA Chairman, Ifeanyi Nnani, who condemned the violence in strong terms.
“The gruesome killings of innocent people who were attacked in their own homes and farms is a clear indication of the insecurity in our state,” said Nnani.
He pledged full support to the victims and their families, promising that the local authorities would not rest until peace is restored.
“We will do everything possible to ensure that those responsible for these attacks are brought to justice,” he added.
Rising Concerns Amid Recurring Attacks
The Imo incident comes less than 48 hours after a similar attack in Mgbuji, Eha-Amufu, Enugu State, where suspected Fulani herdsmen reportedly killed four local farmers in a brutal ambush.
The recurring nature of these attacks has sparked national concern over the rising wave of rural violence in Nigeria. Many locals in Oguta described the incident as “terrorism”, calling for increased government protection.
One distraught resident, who asked not to be named, told The Bureau:
“This is a clear case of terrorism. We need the government to take urgent action. Our lives are at stake.”
Call for Vigilante Groups
In response to the tragedy, the Federal Commissioner representing Imo State in the NDDC, Kyrian Uchegbu, urged residents to form local vigilante groups to defend themselves against further attacks.
“We need to work together to ensure that our communities are safe and secure,” Uchegbu said.
Silence from Security Agencies
As of press time, the Imo State Police Command has not issued any official statement regarding the incident. Repeated attempts to reach the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Henry Okoye, were unsuccessful.
What Next?
The Agwa killings are yet another grim reminder of Nigeria’s worsening security challenges, particularly in rural communities. As survivors tend to their wounds and bury their dead, citizens and leaders alike are calling for urgent reforms, improved intelligence gathering, and justice for the innocent lives lost.
By Precious Ibeh
The Bureau Newspaper
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