13 killed as gunmen attack Anambra community during meeting

Panic and sorrow gripped Ogboji community in Orumba South Local Government Area of Anambra State on Monday evening, following a brutal attack by unidentified gunmen that claimed the lives of at least 13 people.

According to eyewitnesses, the heavily armed assailants stormed a monthly welfare meeting organized by members of the Ebonyi community residing in Ogboji, arriving in two Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs).

Without any warning, the attackers opened fire on the gathering, leaving several dead and others seriously injured.

The victims were mostly non-indigenes, with a significant number belonging to the Ebonyi extraction, who had come together to deliberate on community welfare and mutual support.

According to Chigozie Nweke, President of the Association of Non-Indigenes in Anambra State, “It was a tragic evening for us.

These killings were unprovoked and cruel, and most of the victims were Ebonyi indigenes residing in the community.”

A survivor, Augustine Odom, who is also the chairman of the Ebonyi community in Ogboji, described the horror.

He recounted that the gunmen accused them of plotting against them, demanded the group’s minutes book, and then began shooting at them.

Odom explained that about 13 people were killed on the spot while he and the treasurer survived with gunshot wounds.

“These were innocent people,” he said. “We’ve lived peacefully in this community without trouble. This was a meeting meant to discuss our welfare and support one another, not to incite anyone.”

The Anambra State Police Command confirmed the attack, saying 10 fatalities were officially recorded.

The Police Public Relations Officer, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, noted that officers responded swiftly, cordoned off the scene, and commenced investigations.

“The victims were taken to the hospital where 10 were confirmed dead, while others are receiving treatment. The police-led security team has taken over the area, and efforts are underway to track down those responsible,” Ikenga stated.

He assured the public that justice would be served and promised that updates would be shared as investigations progressed.