In a disturbing development, the Imo State Police Command has confirmed that suspected members of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) launched coordinated attacks on the Isiala Mbano Local Government Headquarters and the Obowo Police Station. These violent assaults have led to the tragic deaths of two vigilante personnel and a police constable, further intensifying the already fragile security situation in the region.
The spokesperson of the Imo State Police Command, ASP Henry Okoye, issued a statement detailing the unfortunate incidents. According to the statement, the attackers, described as hoodlums, stormed the locations in large numbers, armed with weapons and improvised explosive devices, including fuel bombs. Their sporadic gunfire and the use of incendiary devices resulted in substantial damage, though the swift response of security forces helped to limit the extent of the destruction.
Despite the concerted efforts to repel the assailants, the attacks still resulted in the loss of three lives. Two vigilant members of the local community, dedicated to safeguarding their areas, were killed in the crossfire. Tragically, a police constable was also murdered in his home in Obowo. This constable, whose commitment to public safety ultimately cost him his life, stands as a grim reminder of the grave risks faced daily by law enforcement and security personnel in Nigeria, particularly in volatile regions like Imo State.
In response to these brutal assaults, the Commissioner of Police for Imo State, CP Aboki Danjuma, has rallied the heads of various security agencies within the state to coordinate a decisive countermeasure. According to the statement, security forces have been bolstered with increased personnel and enhanced operational resources, all aimed at tracking down the perpetrators and ensuring that they face justice. The Commissioner assured the public that these measures would leave no stone unturned in the quest to restore order and bring those responsible to book.
Following the attacks, a high-level security assessment was conducted on September 4, 2024. This critical evaluation was led by CP Aboki Danjuma, accompanied by prominent security leaders including Brigadier General U.A. Lawal, the Commander of the 34 Artillery Brigade, and Commodore M.B. Salisu, Commander of the Oguta Naval Base. Also present were the Senior Special Assistant on Security Affairs, retired General Joseph Ogbonna, Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), CC Mathew Ovey, and several local government officials, including Hon. Chika Okirike, the Acting Sole Administrator of Isiala Mbano, and the Chairman of the Isiala Mbano Vigilante Group.
During the security briefing, these leaders unequivocally condemned the senseless violence that had erupted. They collectively pledged to implement stronger security measures aimed at preventing future attacks of this nature. The officials also stressed the importance of continued collaboration between local vigilante groups and formal security forces to maintain peace in the state. Despite the tragedy, they called on all serving personnel to remain steadfast and resilient in the face of the escalating security challenges.
As part of their resolutions, the security chiefs urged community leaders and local residents to play a more active role in supporting the ongoing efforts to combat violence. They emphasized the need for communities to report suspicious activities or individuals promptly to the authorities, as this would significantly aid in curbing criminal activities before they escalate into major incidents. By fostering greater cooperation between the people and security agencies, the officials hope to reduce crime to its barest minimum.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Aboki Danjuma, reaffirmed the Imo State Command’s unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all citizens. He expressed deep condolences to the families of the fallen vigilante personnel and the police constable, acknowledging the heavy toll that their loss represents to both their families and the broader community. The Commissioner assured the public that every necessary step was being taken to enhance peace and security in the state, while also stressing that the battle against insurgency and violent crime is one that demands collective effort.
In light of these tragic events, security forces in Imo State have been placed on heightened alert, with reinforcements deployed to strategic locations across the state to prevent further incidents.
