Soldiers Killings: Aba Under Lockdown as Reprisal Attacks Continue, Residents Count Losses

Aba, Abia State, has been plunged into a state of lockdown following a series of reprisal attacks by soldiers after the killing of five of their colleagues at Obikabia Junction, Ogbor Hill, on Thursday, May 30. The attack, carried out by unknown gunmen, resulted in the deaths of the soldiers and the burning of two patrol vans and their checkpoint.

In retaliation, soldiers have stormed Aba and its surrounding areas, assaulting and arresting motorists and residents. This has sparked widespread fear, causing many residents to stay indoors. The presence of two military helicopters hovering over the city for days has only added to the tension.

Despite reassurances from Governor Alex Otti, urging innocent residents to resume their normal activities, fear of military reprisals persists. The city’s nightlife has vanished, with residents, motorists, and business owners rushing home as early as 6:30 PM. A week after the attack, businesses in the Ogbor Hill area remain shuttered.

Churches in the Obikabia area have also halted their activities due to fears of military raids. The soldiers have extended their operations to markets and business centers in Aba, including Cemetery, Ngwa Road, Ariaria, and Ekeoha markets, ordering traders to vacate their premises.

A restaurant owner, Mama Uche, reported losing over N200,000 worth of food ingredients, which spoiled when she fled the area. Another trader at Cemetery Market lost a significant contract due to the market’s abrupt closure. Soldiers have allegedly shut the Abia-Rivers boundary, further disrupting commerce.

Prominent eateries like Chicken Republic and Crunchies, near the Obikabia checkpoint, remain closed. Hotels and recreational spots have also been targeted, with soldiers reportedly arresting guests and staff members during nocturnal raids. A laundry operator from a hotel on Ukaegbu Road recounted a 2 AM invasion where lodgers and staff were detained, some still held at a military camp.

Reports of passengers being humiliated at military barricades on the Aba-Umuahia section of the Enugu-Port Harcourt Expressway have also emerged. Although the situation is easing, incidents at Umuikaa Junction persist, where passengers are forced to raise their hands before passing.

Residents have also reported cases of missing persons following home raids. Governor Otti has called for the release of innocent detainees and urged the military to follow proper conduct. Human rights group Foundation for Environmental Rights, Advocacy and Development (FENRAD) condemned the soldiers’ killings but criticized the military’s alleged torture, mass arrests, and enforced disappearances.

FENRAD emphasized the need for rules of engagement even in crisis situations and urged the governor to restore calm to prevent further economic hardship and fear among residents. Efforts to reach the military authorities for comment were unsuccessful.