Ogboji Massacre: 19 Feared Dead as Gunmen Attack Meeting in Anambra

Ogboji, Anambra State – Panic and mourning swept across Ogboji community in Orumba South Local Government Area of Anambra State on Monday after heavily armed gunmen invaded a meeting venue and opened fire on unsuspecting attendees, leaving at least 19 people feared dead in a shocking act of violence.

According to eyewitness reports obtained by Vanguard, the attack was sudden and brutal. The assailants, who arrived in two black Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs), allegedly targeted a gathering of individuals believed to be of Ebonyi State origin. Though the exact motive remains unclear, some sources have linked the assault to the controversial sit-at-home enforcement efforts ongoing in parts of the Southeast.

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Eyewitnesses Recount Horror as Gunmen Open Fire

Survivors described scenes of utter chaos and terror as the gunmen stormed the venue. One of the survivors, who spoke to journalists under anonymity for security reasons, recounted how the attackers demanded to see the minutes of the meeting before opening fire.

“They came suddenly, asking for the minutes of the meeting. Before anyone could respond, they started shooting. It was terrifying,” the witness said.

Initial reports claim that at least 19 people lost their lives in the attack, while several others sustained gunshot wounds. Eyewitnesses said the shooting lasted for several minutes, and many tried to flee through surrounding bushes.

While the motive has yet to be confirmed, some residents speculate that the killing may have stemmed from an internal conflict or a crackdown on unauthorized gatherings perceived to oppose certain regional mandates, including the banned sit-at-home directive once enforced by separatist groups.

Police Confirm 10 Dead, Begin Manhunt for Killers

In an official statement issued Tuesday morning, Anambra State Police Command confirmed the incident but offered a different casualty count. Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, stated that 10 people were confirmed dead, while nine others were hospitalized with injuries.

“The armed criminals came in two Sport Utility Vehicles and attacked a gathering, shooting sporadically,” the statement read.

Ikenga confirmed that security operatives, including police and other agencies, have taken control of the scene and initiated a manhunt for the perpetrators. He condemned the violence and assured residents that efforts were underway to bring those responsible to justice.

“The command strongly condemns this act of violence and is working with relevant stakeholders to ensure those responsible are brought to justice,” Ikenga added.

Fear, Tension Grip Ogboji Community

The massacre has sparked a fresh wave of fear across Ogboji and neighboring communities. Local residents, still reeling from the shock, have begun calling on the state government and security agencies to intensify patrols and prevent further bloodshed.

A local community leader, speaking anonymously, highlighted growing insecurity in the area: “This is not the first time we are seeing strange faces in the area. But this kind of mass killing has never happened before. Our people are afraid. We don’t feel safe anymore.”

Residents have reportedly started restricting movement, especially during evening hours, and schools and businesses in the area observed low activity on Tuesday following the attack.

Despite the public outcry, the Anambra State Government had not issued an official statement on the incident as of the time of this report. However, civil society groups and community-based organizations are pressing the authorities to act swiftly and decisively to prevent a recurrence.

Rising Insecurity in the Southeast

The Ogboji massacre adds to the growing list of violent incidents that have plagued Anambra and the wider Southeast in recent years. The region, once known for relative peace, has witnessed a surge in armed attacks, including assassinations, arson, and mob killings, often attributed to unknown gunmen.

The sit-at-home directive, originally imposed by secessionist movements, has become a flashpoint for violence, with criminal elements allegedly hijacking the initiative to enforce their agenda through fear and bloodshed.

Analysts warn that unless both the federal and state governments take coordinated action to dismantle these criminal networks, communities will continue to live in fear, and the region’s socio-economic development will further deteriorate.

As investigations continue and families begin to bury their dead, the people of Ogboji are left with more questions than answers. For now, the cry is the same across the community: justice, safety, and the return of peace.