Suspected herdsmen gunmen launched an attack on Adani in the Uzo-Uwani Local Government Area of Enugu State, resulting in the tragic deaths of two brothers.
The two brothers identified as Mr. Ogbonna Fidelis Anene, aged 33, and Ogbonna John Onyeka, aged 25, were killed on Sunday while they were on their way to their farm.
SaharaReporters reported on Tuesday that some bandits invaded Ikem community in the Isi-Uzo local government area of the state, killing one person, injuring two and kidnapping two others.
Meanwhile, the state police commissioner, Kanayo Uzuegbu, who visited Adani community on Monday, has vowed to track down the killers, noting that they cannot prevent the residents of the state from accessing their farms.
Condoling with the family of the deceased, CP Uzuegbu expressed sadness over the incident and told the people of Adani that a squad had been sent to find the killers to to bring them to justice.
He said that security had also been reinforced around the borders of the local government area.
He commended Governor Peter Mbah for his determination to rid the state of all criminal elements, noting that the governor’s support and investment in security were responsible for the state’s status as one of the safest units in the country.
The commissioner asked the natives to go about their lawful business without fear and assured them of the resolve and cooperation of security agencies to secure their lives and property at home and on their farmland.
He, however, appealed to the people to be vigilant and assist security agents with relevant information about any suspicious persons or criminal activities in their environment.
He said, “The Enugu State under the watchful eyes of the administration of Peter Mbah and the Nigeria Police can never allow the perpetrators of this evil act to go scot-free.
“The government is displeased with this ugly report and we shall ensure justice for the Ogbonna brothers. That is the governor’s demand and that is the Inspector General of Police’s order.
“You can’t stop going to farm because it is your means of livelihood, but we are guaranteeing your safety. We shall clamp down on these criminals. Enugu is already too hot for them, but we shall make it even hotter for them going forward. So, I urge you all to take heart and count on us for your ceaseless protection.”
The Senior Special Assistant to Governor Mbah on Media, Dan Nwomeh, reiterated the governor’s resolve to hunt down the criminals who killed two brothers on their farm.
In a post shared on his X (formerly Twitter) handle, Nwomeh wrote: “As directed by Governor Peter Mbah @PNMbah, Enugu State Commissioner of Police, CP Kanayo Uzuegbu on Monday led a team of detectives and police special squads to Adani in Uzo Uwani LGA where 2 brothers were killed in the farm the previous day, vowing to hunt down the perpetrators.”
Also reacting to the gruesome killing in Adani and Isi-Uzo, the governorship candidate of the Labour Party, Chief Chijoke Edeoga decried the attacks and killings, describing them as an affront to humanity and a grave violation of peace and security.
Edeoga, who stated this in a statement shared on his X handle on Wednesday, called on the Enugu State government and the federal government to take immediate and decisive action to protect the people from such atrocities.
He said: “The recent attacks on the people of Ikem, Eha-Amufu, Isi Uzo LG, and most recently the people of Uzo Uwani, in Enugu State by herdsmen are deplorable acts of violence that cannot be tolerated.
“The senseless loss of lives and the infliction of harm upon innocent civilians are affronts to humanity and grave violations of peace and security.
“I call upon both the Enugu State and Federal governments to take immediate and decisive action to protect the people from such atrocities. It is the responsibility of the government to ensure the safety and security of its citizens, and any failure to do so is a betrayal of trust and an exhibition of incompetence.
“Furthermore, I urge the authorities to swiftly investigate this heinous act and bring the perpetrators to justice. Those responsible for instigating fear and perpetrating violence must be held accountable for their actions. Justice must be served to restore faith in the rule of law and to prevent further bloodshed.”
Edeoga said he was deeply concerned that farms in Eha-Amufu were still occupied by bandits, making it difficult for the people who survive mainly on farm produce to thrive.
He said, “This situation exacerbates the suffering of the affected communities and underscores the urgency of addressing the root causes of insecurity.
“Moreover, the multiple attacks by herdsmen serve as stark reminders that more needs to be done by the relevant federal authorities to ensure the safety of citizens across the country. The recurrent nature of these attacks highlights the inadequacies in our security infrastructure and demands urgent and comprehensive intervention.
“To those who have been injured in this senseless attack, I offer my heartfelt condolences and solidarity. No words can fully express the pain and suffering that you are enduring, but know that you are not alone. I stand with you in your time of need and I pray for your swift recovery.
“To the families and loved ones of those who have tragically lost their lives in this horrific incident, I extend my deepest sympathies and condolences. The loss of a loved one is a profound and devastating experience, and I mourn with you during this difficult time. May you find strength and solace in the memories of your loved ones, and may they rest in peace.
“I call on all Nigerians to condemn violence in all its forms and to demand justice for the victims of these senseless attacks ravaging our dear nation. Together, we must stand united against hatred and division and work towards building a society where peace and harmony prevail.”
SaharaReporters reports that Uzo Uwani and Isi-Uzo local government areas have suffered attacks from armed men suspected to be herdsmen in the past.
In April 2016, it was reported that about 500 suspected herdsmen attacked Nimbo in Uzo Uwani, killing about 20 people.
Before the 2023 general election, suspected herdsmen sacked about 21 farm settlements in five Eha-Amufu communities and killed scored of people.
