Residents of Umuchima community in Isiala Ngwa North Local Government Area of Abia State are living in fear after an early morning attack by unidentified gunmen on Friday.
The assault has left two people dead and caused widespread panic, with many fleeing their homes for safety.
Unverified reports suggest that the gunmen targeted a man named Osama, accusing him of informing the Nigerian Army about their activities.
The army had conducted a raid in the area earlier this week, which may have prompted the attack.
The second victim, identified as the local vigilante commander, was also killed during the assault. His name has not been confirmed at this time.
The attack has led to widespread chaos, with residents abandoning their homes in fear of further violence.
Many are now seeking refuge in neighboring towns, worried about potential retaliation either from the assailants or security forces.
This attack comes on the heels of a military operation earlier in the week when Nigerian Army forces raided a suspected hideout of the gunmen in Umuchima.
The army, operating under the 14 Brigade Army Headquarters at Goodluck Ebele Jonathan Barracks in Ohafia, engaged the gunmen—alleged members of the Eastern Security Network (ESN) and the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB)—in a gun battle.
The army successfully repelled the gunmen, who were forced to flee, leaving behind motorcycles and other equipment.
Despite the raid, there has been no official statement from the Abia State government or the Nigerian Army regarding the attack on Friday, and the community remains on edge, anticipating more violence.
