Nibo Killings: Soludo Has Failed to Secure the Lives of Ndi Anambra – Senator Umeh

Senator Victor Umeh, representing Anambra Central, has strongly criticized Governor Charles Soludo’s administration, stating that it has failed to secure the lives and property of the people of Anambra. His comments follow the tragic killing of several youths during a traditional festival in Nibo community, Awka South Local Government Area, on Sunday, October 20, 2024.

In a statement personally signed by the senator, Umeh expressed deep shock and sadness over the incident, revealing that local sources confirmed to him that 16 people were killed in the attack, contrary to police reports which claimed only five fatalities.

“It is with shock and deep pain that I condemn the shooting in Nibo. From the information I received from an indigene of Nibo, who is a major stakeholder in the community, about 16 people were killed, and several others are critically injured and still receiving treatment in hospitals,” Umeh said.

The senator emphasized the severity of the situation, noting that the killings occurred just a few poles away from the Governor’s Lodge, raising serious concerns about the state of security in Anambra under Soludo’s leadership. Umeh lamented that the state has been consistently plagued by violent attacks, including killings and kidnappings, with little visible action taken to address the crisis.

“This tragic event shows how unsafe Anambra has become under Governor Soludo. There have been ongoing reports of killings and kidnappings across the state without any effective measures to stem the tide,” Umeh stated.

He expressed his condolences to the families of the victims and urged those responsible for the violence to cease their activities. “I commiserate with the families of the victims and the entire Nibo community. I also call on those involved in these killings and kidnappings to lay down their arms. The continuous waste of human lives is driving fear into the hearts of our people, discouraging them from returning home or investing in the state.”

Senator Umeh also called on Governor Soludo to step up efforts to protect the people of Anambra, emphasizing that ensuring the safety of citizens is the primary responsibility of any government. He warned that the growing insecurity could have far-reaching consequences for the state’s economic development, as it discourages both local and foreign investment.

“The security of lives and property is a key responsibility of the government. The outcry of citizens over the unsafe and porous security situation in Anambra should not be ignored or politicized by state agents. This is a matter of grave concern that affects all Anambra people,” Umeh concluded.

The senator’s remarks have further highlighted the growing dissatisfaction among residents regarding the security situation in Anambra State, as the wave of violence continues to disrupt daily life and heighten fears among communities. Governor Soludo has yet to respond to Umeh’s criticism.