Fear gripped residents of Nawfia in Njikoka Local Government Area of Anambra State on Sunday after unidentified gunmen carried out a deadly attack around the Afor Market Junction, leaving several people feared dead.
Witnesses said the assailants arrived unexpectedly and began shooting at people in the area, throwing the community into confusion. Many residents fled in panic, while others were caught in the gunfire.
According to a local resident, “The armed hoodlums invaded Afor Market Junction and immediately opened fire, killing a lot of people. Nobody knows the reason behind the attack; the attack has left our community shaken.”
Several residents who spoke after the incident said the community was still in shock, with calls growing for security agencies to bolster patrols to prevent further violence.
Another eyewitness recounted the terrifying moments, saying, “It was chaos. The attackers came out of nowhere this evening in a commando-like fashion and started shooting indiscriminately.
“The police have launched an investigation into the attacks and are working to apprehend the perpetrators.”
A video currently circulating online shows people running for their lives while bodies were seen lying on the ground.
In a statement confirming the attack, the President General of the Nawfia Progressive Union, Chief Daniel Okoye, said relevant security agencies had been notified and were already probing the incident.
Okoye said, “This evening, I received with deep shock the tragic news of an attack at the Afor Market Junction in Nawfia community.
“The incident resulted in multiple casualties, caused by unknown assailants who carried out this senseless act of violence.
“I strongly condemn this heartbreaking incident and the attempt to disrupt the peace of our beloved community. I have already contacted the relevant security agencies, and investigations are underway to uncover those responsible.
“I appeal to all Ndi Nawfia to remain calm, stay vigilant, and continue to cooperate with security operatives as they work tirelessly to restore normalcy and ensure our safety.
“My thoughts and prayers are with the families affected. On behalf of the Nawfia Progressive Union, I extend our deepest sympathies and assure you that we are fully committed to supporting efforts aimed at protecting lives and maintaining peace in Nawfia.”
The Police Public Relations Officer in Anambra State, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, could not be reached for official comments.
However, a senior police source said, “The police have launched an investigation into the attacks and are working to apprehend the perpetrators.
“We condemn these heinous acts and assure the public that we will do everything possible to bring the culprits to justice.”