The serene Agwa community in Oguta Local Government Area of Imo State has been plunged into fear and despair following a brutal attack by suspected armed Fulani herdsmen on Wednesday.
The incident, which has left five dead, three kidnapped, and several others injured, has sparked an outcry for immediate government intervention.
Reports indicate that the heavily armed herders invaded the oil-rich Agwa community, seizing control of farmlands and major roads.
Eyewitness accounts revealed that the attackers launched their assault in Umuekpu town, Mbano Agwa autonomous community, where they killed a young man and injured several others, including his elder brother.
Further atrocities were committed along Okwu Ogbaku Road, where the herdsmen reportedly killed four more individuals, including a young woman and motorcycle riders going about their daily activities. The attack has intensified fears among residents, who have been grappling with a spate of kidnappings and violence over the past two years.
Residents recounted harrowing tales of the herdsmen’s modus operandi, which includes blocking roads with cattle to ambush unsuspecting travelers.
The invaders are also accused of raping women in secluded areas, destroying farmlands, and extorting large sums of money from kidnap victims’ families.
Since January this year, over 20 people have reportedly been abducted in the area, with victims released only after paying hefty ransoms. The herdsmen’s actions have left farmers unable to access their lands for fear of being attacked, leading to widespread hunger and economic hardship in the community.
The Traditional ruler, HRH Eze Sylvester Onuegbu of Mbano Agwa autonomous community was quoted to have expressed deep regret over the recurrent violence.
Confirming the herdsmen’s deadly activities, he lamented the impact on farmers and called on the Imo State government, security agencies, and relevant authorities to intervene decisively.
The Agwa Central Union (ACU) has also condemned the attacks, urging the state government and federal security agencies to expel the herders from the area.
In a statement released on Thursday, the ACU appealed to Governor Hope Uzodimma and local government authorities to act swiftly to protect lives and restore peace.
Residents have expressed fears of a potential violent clash between the community’s youths and the herdsmen if immediate action is not taken.
A local witness stressed the urgency of government intervention, warning that the situation could spiral out of control.
