The ongoing crisis over the traditional stool of Ojoto community in Idemili South Local Government Area of Anambra State has escalated, with gunmen invading the area in a bid to abduct prominent individuals.
The attack, which occurred at 1 a.m. last Friday, has forced many residents to flee their homes in fear of being kidnapped or harmed.
During the invasion, one of the targets was kidnapped, but was later rescued by security operatives from the neighboring community of Oba.
The rescued victim, whose identity has been withheld, has since moved his family to a safer location to avoid further attacks from the gunmen.
The conflict over the Ojoto traditional stool has been ongoing, with the matter currently under legal deliberation at the Nnewi High Court.
Tensions flared after Gerald Mbamalu was given the staff of office by the government, despite the community’s earlier selection of Dennis Okafor for the throne.
This has led to a bitter dispute between the two factions, with one seeking legal redress.
Since the gunmen’s attack, most residents of Ojoto have abandoned their homes, with some choosing to spend the festive period elsewhere.
Others in the community are living in constant fear.
Four of the gunmen were apprehended by the Oba Vigilance group.
While the State Police Public Relations Officer, Tochukwu Ikenga, was unavailable for comment, a senior police officer confirmed the incident and assured the public that an investigation was underway.
“The police are committed to protecting the lives and property of Anambra residents and will not allow criminals to take control,” the source said.
“We urge the community to let the court resolve the matter peacefully.”
