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By Madu Obi
Tragedy struck in Nibo, Awka South local government area of Anambra State on Sunday as scores of lives were lost in a brutal attack by masked men.
The gunmen were said to have stormed an eatery in the community in a black Lexus SUV and opened fire, shooting people indiscriminately, leaving several people dead. At the last count, no fewer than 10 persons were already dead
According to eyewitnesses, the attack occurred during the Onwa Asaa ceremony, a traditional festival in the community.
"It was like a war zone. The gunmen just stormed the place and started shooting everywhere. People were running for their lives, screaming and crying. It was chaos.
"We are devastated. How can someone do this to us during our celebration? It's heartbreaking." The motive behind the attack remains unclear, but authorities have been urged to launch a thorough investigation.
"We urge the government to take immediate action as we cannot continue to live in fear. We need peace and security.
The festivals, meant to bring people together, have been marred by violence and bloodshed, " the eyewitness said.
The state Police command has already deployed several policemen and other security agencies to the area.
The police command said investigation into the incident had begun.
Confirming the incident, the state Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Tochukwu Ikenga attributed it to suspected cult-related clash.
According to him, the State Commissioner of Police, CP Nnaghe Obono Itam, has ordered the immediate deployment of additional operatives to the area for necessary action.
He said that the preliminary reports on the incidents were still sketchy, adding that the command is calling on witnesses to come forward with information that could help identify the perpetrators for possible arrest and prosecution.
The PPRO assured that any information provided by informants would be treated with the utmost confidentiality.
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