Some gunmen suspected to be Fulani bandits have reportedly attacked Adani in Uzo-Uwani Local Government Area of Enugu State killing two brothers in their farms.
The victims, Mr Ogbonna Fidelis Anene, aged 33, and Ogbonna John Onyeka, aged 25, it was gathered, were killed on Sunday when they were going to their farms.
The Enugu State Police Command has confirmed the unfortunate incident, and vowed to apprehend the assailants.
It was reported that gunmen believed to be Fulani bandits also attacked Ikem community in Isi-Uzo local government area on Sunday and Monday respectively, killing the catechist of Anglican church, injured two and kidnapped two others.
Reacting to the killings in Adani and Isi-Uzo, the governorship candidate of the Labour Party, Chief Chijoke Edeoga decried the ceaseless herdsmen attacks, describing it as an affronts to humanity and grave violations of peace and security.
Edeoga, who stated this a statement shared on his X (formerly Twitter) on Wednesday, called on the Enugu State and Federal governments to take immediate and decisive action to protect the people from such atrocities.
He said: “The recent attacks on the people of Ikem, Eha-Amufu, Isi Uzo LG, and most recently the people of Uzo Uwani, in Enugu State by herdsmen are deplorable acts of violence that cannot be tolerated. The senseless loss of lives and the infliction of harm upon innocent civilians are affronts to humanity and grave violations of peace and security.
“I call upon both the Enugu State and Federal governments to take immediate and decisive action to protect the people from such atrocities. It is the responsibility of the government to ensure the safety and security of its citizens, and any failure to do so is a betrayal of trust and an exhibition of incompetence.
“Furthermore, I urge the authorities to swiftly investigate this heinous act and bring the perpetrators to justice. Those responsible for instigating fear and perpetrating violence must be held accountable for their actions. Justice must be served to restore faith in the rule of law and to prevent further bloodshed.”
Edeoga said that he was deeply concerned that farmlands in Eha-Amufu are still occupied by bandits, making it difficult for the people who survive mainly on farm produce to thrive. “This situation exacerbates the suffering of the affected communities and underscores the urgency of addressing the root causes of insecurity.
“Moreover, the multiple attacks by herdsmen serve as stark reminders that more needs to be done by the relevant federal authorities to ensure the safety of citizens across the country. The recurrent nature of these attacks highlights the inadequacies in our security infrastructure and demands urgent and comprehensive intervention.
“To those who have been injured in this senseless attack, I offer my heartfelt condolences and solidarity. No words can fully express the pain and suffering that you are enduring, but know that you are not alone. I stand with you in your time of need and I pray for your swift recovery.
“To the families and loved ones of those who have tragically lost their lives in this horrific incident, I extend my deepest sympathies and condolences. The loss of a loved one is a profound and devastating experience, and I mourn with you during this difficult time. May you find strength and solace in the memories of your loved ones, and may they rest in peace.
“I call on all Nigerians to condemn violence in all its forms and to demand justice for the victims of these senseless attacks ravaging our dear nation. Together, we must stand united against hatred and division and work towards building a society where peace and harmony prevail.”
Meanwhile, the State Commissioner of Police, Kanayo Uzuegbu, who visited Adani community to commiserate with the victims family on Monday, vowed to track down the killer herders.
Uzuegbu expressed sadness over the ugly incident, assured the people of Adani that a crack squad had been sent after the perpetrators to ring them under the full weight of the law, while also reinforcing security in the border local government area.
He, however, appealed to the people to be vigilant and assist security agents with relevant information of any suspicious persons or criminal activities in their environment.
“The Enugu State under the watchful eyes of the administration of Peter Mbah and the Nigeria Police can never allow the perpetrators of this evil act to go scot free. The government is displeased with this ugly report and we shall ensure justice for the Ogbonna brothers. That is the governor’s demand and that is the Inspector General of Police’s order.
“You can’t stop going to farm because it is your means of livelihood, but we are guaranteeing your safety. We shall clamp down on these criminals. Enugu is already too hot for them, but we shall make it even hotter for them going forward. So, I urge you all to take heart and count on us for your ceaseless protections,” the CP said.
