Gunmen suspected to be secessionists attacked a police divisional headquarters in Idemili South County (Local Government Area) of Anambra State early Tuesday, resulting in the death of a police corporal. The attackers also targeted a nearby multi-purpose building, the Oba Civic Centre, causing damage and injuries.
The motive behind the attack remains unclear, but Daily Trust reports that it is connected to a declaration by secessionist leader Simon Ekpa calling for a month-long campaign of hostility against government establishments in Southeast Nigeria from August 28, 2024.
Police Public Relations Officer SP Tochukwu Ikenga confirmed the attack in a statement. He explained that the suspected armed secessionist group began the attack by firing shots and throwing petrol bombs, which ignited fires in several offices, including the Oba Civic Centre.
“Unfortunately, a police corporal who was fatally wounded paid the supreme price,” Ikenga said. “The fire was put out with the help of other police officers on duty and the joint security responding team.”
Anambra State Commissioner of Police Nnaghe Obono Itam condemned the attack, describing it as “an assault on the soul of the nation.” He vowed to bring those responsible to justice, stating that such acts of hostility against security agents would not go unpunished.
—Ezinwanne Onwuka reports for TruthNigeria from Abuja.
