Enugu Governor Vows to Hunt Down Perpetrators of Deadly Attack in Nimbo Community

On Sunday night, suspected Fulani herdsmen attacked the Ugwuijoro Nimbo community in Uzo-Uwani Local Government Area of Enugu State, killing at least four people and injuring several others. The attack targeted mourners gathered in the community, leaving behind a scene of scattered tables and chairs, and lifeless villagers in pools of blood.

The victims were identified as Okeh Simon Ugwu Oruku, Okeh Chukwuebuka, Julius Ogbonna Odiegwu, and Gabriel Ugwor Ezea. Residents said the attackers invaded the community in the evening and opened fire on residents, including a child of about two years old.

Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah has vowed to hunt down the perpetrators of the deadly attack. He condemned the attack as "malicious and unacceptable" and promised to deploy all necessary resources to identify, pursue, and bring the culprits to justice.

Why this matters: The Nimbo community in Uzo-Uwani LGA has previously experienced similar attacks by herdsmen, including an incident in 2016 that left at least 14 people dead. The frequent attacks by suspected herders in the area, which is a major agricultural hub in Enugu State, have raised concerns about the safety and security of residents.

Governor Mbah assured the community that the government would not tolerate such acts and would guarantee the safety of the people. He also pledged government support for the victims and their families, including scholarships for the children of the victims and employment opportunities for their family members.

The community leader, Clement Akachukwu, called for the government to strengthen the local vigilante groups and forest guards to complement the security agencies in protecting the remote and vulnerable Nimbo community. "The Nimbo community has been targeted by herdsmen for decades," Akachukwu said.

The Enugu State Police Public Relations Officer has not yet responded to inquiries about the incident. The attack has left the Ugwuijoro Nimbo community deserted, with residents abandoning their homes out of fear of further attacks. Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi condemned the killings, describing them as senseless and calling for urgent action by the government and security agencies to prevent further attacks in the area.

Key Takeaways

• Suspected Fulani herdsmen attacked Ugwuijoro Nimbo community, killing 4 and injuring others.
• Enugu State Governor vowed to hunt down perpetrators and support victims' families.
• Nimbo community has faced similar attacks by herdsmen, raising security concerns.
• Community leader called for strengthening local vigilante groups to protect the area.
• Labour Party candidate condemned the killings and urged government action to prevent further attacks.