Residents of Ebenebe community in Awka North Local Government Area of Anambra State were thrown into panic on Saturday as unidentified gunmen invaded the area to enforce the observance of Biafra Day, leading to a violent confrontation with security operatives.
Eyewitnesses reported that the assailants, numbering about five and riding on motorcycles, stormed the community around 10 a.m., armed with AK-47 rifles.
They reportedly ordered traders and residents to shut down all commercial activities in honour of those who lost their lives during the Nigeria-Biafra civil war.
Although the gunmen were initially non-violent and instructed shop owners to resume business by 4 p.m., their presence sparked fear, forcing many residents to flee and businesses to close abruptly.
Tension escalated shortly after the group exited the area, as heavy gunfire erupted following a confrontation with operatives of the Agunechemba Security Outfit. According to sources, the clash resulted in a fierce gun battle that sent residents scrambling for safety.
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An eyewitness described the situation as chaotic, noting that sporadic gunshots continued throughout the day. While security operatives were said to have initially subdued the attackers, the gunmen reportedly regrouped and launched a renewed assault later in the evening.
“As I speak, everywhere is deserted. People have locked themselves indoors for fear of stray bullets.
We don’t know what the night holds,” the source said.
As of the time of filing this report, there was no official confirmation of casualties, and the identities of the attackers remain unknown.
Efforts to reach the spokesperson of the Agunechemba Security Outfit were unsuccessful, while the Anambra State Police Command has yet to issue an official statement.
The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) had earlier declared May 30 as Biafra Day, a yearly event commemorating victims of the civil war, often marked by sit-at-home directives in parts of the Southeast.
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