In a disturbing incident, gunmen reportedly set fire to the residence of the Eze-elect of Okwuru Orsuihiteukwo, Chief Ezekiel Nwokedi, in the Orsu local government area of Imo State, Nigeria. The attack, which occurred on Saturday night, involved the looting of valuables worth millions of naira before the assailants set the multi-million naira mansion ablaze.
Community sources reveal that the attackers meticulously supervised the destruction of the property, leaving it in ruins. This incident has reignited fear and apprehension among villagers who have previously experienced gunmen attacks, prompting some to flee to nearby forests for safety.
Orsuihiteukwa has been plagued by recurrent insecurity issues, leading many inhabitants to abandon their homes in search of safer environments. Chief Ezekiel Nwokedi, who was slated to become the Eze (traditional ruler) of the community, has been actively engaged in efforts to combat insecurity in the local government area. His leadership through the Odinma Orsu Initiative has advocated for ceasefire and peace, even initiating an amnesty program in collaboration with the state government to encourage gunmen to surrender their arms.
Expressing his deep concern over the situation, the Eze-elect lamented the sudden rise in insecurity, especially given the progress he thought had been made. He urged the government of Imo State and local security agencies to intervene and address the escalating insecurity.
When contacted, the Imo State Police Public Relations Officer, Henry Okoye, confirmed the incident. However, he noted that they were awaiting further details before providing comprehensive information. He assured that more information would be made available once the police were fully briefed on the incident.
