Tension has engulfed Ogidi community in the Idemili North Local Government Area of Anambra State following the killing of the President General of the town’s union and another resident in a late-evening attack on Friday.
The victims were reportedly shot dead at the Ogidi School Field, a popular public space in the community, in an incident the Anambra State Police Command linked to a possible reprisal attack connected to the recent capture and killing of a notorious cultist in the area.
Residents, gripped by fear, said the attack has thrown the community into panic, with many people staying indoors amid concerns over further violence.
Confirming the incident on Saturday, the Police Public Relations Officer of the Anambra State Police Command, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, said the Command “regrets the murder of the President General of the Ogidi community and one other person.”
According to Ikenga, the attack occurred on Friday evening, February 6, and is “allegedly linked to the recent capture and killing of a known notorious cultist within the community.”
“The incident led to the immediate deployment of police operatives to the scene, where they took control and commenced investigations,” Ikenga said in a statement made available to journalists.
He added that the police are currently working with eyewitness accounts and other intelligence available to unravel the circumstances surrounding the killings and track down those responsible.
“The Command is working with eyewitness accounts and other available intelligence to identify and arrest the perpetrators,” he said.
Sources in the community told SaharaReporters that the killing of the President General, who was a prominent figure in Ogidi, has heightened anxiety among residents, especially given the alleged cult-related undertone of the attack.
“This is a very painful loss for the community. People are scared because no one knows if this will escalate,” a resident said, requesting anonymity for security reasons.
The police spokesperson assured the public that security agencies are intensifying efforts to prevent further breakdown of law and order in the area.
“The Anambra State Police Command assures members of the public that all efforts are being intensified to bring those responsible to justice,” Ikenga stated.
He urged residents to remain calm and cooperate fully with law enforcement agencies by providing useful information that could aid the investigation.
“Residents are urged to remain calm and cooperate with the police as investigations continue. Further developments will be communicated in due course,” the statement added.
The killing comes amid ongoing concerns about cult-related violence in parts of Anambra State, where community leaders have repeatedly called for stronger security measures to curb criminal activities.
As investigations continue, Ogidi community remains on edge, mourning the loss of its leader while hoping for swift arrests and justice for the slain victims.
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