There was palpable tension in Imo State on Monday, July 18, 2022, after gunmen suspected to be operatives of Ebubeagu Security outfit allegedly killed seven wedding guests.
The incident, which happened on Sunday, July 17, 2022, caused serious panic in the State.
The victims were said to be going back to their community in Otulu in Oru East Local Government Area from Awomama in the neighbouring Oru West LGA before the gunmen opened fire on them.
Nnamdi Agbor, the President General of Otulu community, who confirmed the incident to newsmen, said that seven persons died on the spot.
He said: “Our people were coming back from Awo Omamma around 7pm after a traditional wedding. Ebube Agu operatives saw them in motorcycles and opened fire on them. As I speak to you, we have recovered seven dead bodies who are our people. Five are missing. Two are critically injured and hospitalised while the other person who sustained minor injuries has been discharged.
“This is very unfortunate. Our people are angry. They are protesting. There was no cause for the killing. They were just riding home when the Ebubeagu Security outfit opened fire on them. This has never happened before.
“We have reported the incident to the security agents. The commissioner of police and the commander of the 34 Artillery Brigade Command Obinze have visited. The DPO is also assisting. I have reported the killing to the member representing us at the National Assembly.
“The celebrant is Chijioke Nnanna. Those arrested are Uchenna Orjiribeka, Chido Ekesinachi, and Nnamdi Ekesinachi. Those in the hospital are Oluebube Agbor and Thank God Iheukwumere. Those who were killed are, Chigozie Obinwa, Ozioma, Chikere Anyadioha, Ifechi Ekesinachi, Emeka Ekesinachi, Aboy Ihegboro, and Chijindu. Five persons are still missing,” he said.
When contacted, the Police Spokesperson, Micheal Abattam, confirmed the incident adding that an investigation had begun.
Source: The Nation
