Fear and tension have gripped residents of Agwa Community in Oguta Local Government Area of Imo State following a brazen attack by suspected armed Fulani herdsmen on Wednesday.
According to local sources, the heavily armed herders forcefully took over farmlands and major roads in the oil-rich community, killing at least five indigenes and wounding several others. Three persons were also reportedly kidnapped during the attack and remain in captivity.
Details of the Attack
The attack reportedly began at Umuekpu town in Mbano Agwa autonomous community, where the assailants shot one young man dead and wounded others, including the elder brother of the deceased. Four additional victims, including a young woman and motorcycle (Okada) riders conducting their daily business along Okwu Ogbaku road, were also killed.
This latest incident follows another serious attack about two weeks ago in parts of the clan, specifically Umuekpu and Obeakuma towns, where the armed herdsmen shot a pregnant woman and others who are still receiving treatment in various hospitals.
Pattern of Violence
Community sources revealed that Agwa residents have experienced no peace for the past two years due to incessant attacks and kidnappings by the herders. The attackers reportedly operate along major roads leading to the clan, particularly Amakohia Ubi-Agwa road, Obibi Ogbaku-Agwa road, Okwu Ogbaku-Agwa road, and Ejemekwuru-Agwa road.
The herders allegedly employ various tactics during operations, including blocking roads with their cattle to force vehicles and motorcycles to slow down or stop, making it easier to kidnap, attack, rob, and reportedly rape female victims. Witnesses stated that the attackers carry dangerous weapons, including AK-47 rifles and machetes.
According to community members, more than twenty persons have been kidnapped in the area by herdsmen since January this year, with victims released only after payment of substantial ransom amounts.
Impact on Local Livelihoods
A community member lamented that the herders have not only occupied their farmlands but also destroyed crops. Many residents have abandoned farming activities due to fear of being attacked or kidnapped, leading to food insecurity concerns.
"These wicked people called Fulani herdsmen attack, rob and kidnap our people every day. Our people don't go to the farm anymore because of them. They are everywhere in our farmlands," said an eyewitness who called on the Imo State government under Governor Hope Uzodimma and security agencies to intervene before the situation escalates further.
Traditional Ruler's Response
HRH Eze Sylvester Onuegbu, the traditional ruler of Mbano Agwa autonomous community, strongly condemned the actions of the herdsmen. He confirmed that numerous innocent people have been killed since the herders arrived in the area.
The traditional ruler disclosed that the matter has been reported to appropriate authorities, including state and local governments, the Police, the DSS, and other security agencies. He expressed surprise at the herders' return after they had previously left the area following earlier incidents.
"I wonder why the Fulani herdsmen would be molesting, robbing and attacking us in our fatherland," Eze Onuegbu stated, calling for urgent government intervention before the situation spirals out of control.
Community Union's Appeal
The national leadership of Agwa Central Union (ACU) also condemned the attacks and kidnappings, demanding that the herders not only cease their activities but leave Agwa land immediately.
In a statement released on Thursday, the ACU called on Governor Hope Uzodimma, Oguta Local Government Chairman Hon. Ifeanyi Nnani, the Nigerian Army, DSS, Police, and other security agencies to intervene by removing the armed herdsmen from Agwa communities.
BenriNews attempted to reach the Imo State Police Command Public Relations officer for comment but was unsuccessful at the time of filing this report.
