Barely 24 hours after gunmen struck Umudibia, Umualuaku in Ehime Mbano LGA of Imo State, another community has been hit by violence. In the early hours of Friday, July 25, 2025, heavily armed attackers invaded Ndi-Ejezie – Umualaoma and Ndiakuwata Uno in Arondizuogu, Ideato North LGA, killing over 19 people and leaving several others critically injured.
According to a local eyewitness, the attack occurred suddenly while residents were playing Draft, a popular board game.
“They shot at us… many were killed. Only three of us survived the attack,” the source recounted, still visibly shaken and unsure of the motive.
The attack has since gone viral on social media, sparking outrage and fear among locals and Nigerians at large.
In a swift response, the Imo State Police Command confirmed the incident, stating that members of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and its armed affiliate ESN are the primary suspects.
Police spokesperson Henry Okoye, in a statement issued to journalists, said:
“Commissioner of Police, CP Aboki Danjuma, strongly condemns the gruesome attack carried out by gunmen suspected to be members of IPOB/ESN… The senseless assault claimed over seven lives and left many others critically injured.”
Although local reports suggest a higher death toll exceeding 19 casualties, the police have officially confirmed seven deaths so far.
CP Danjuma described the incident as barbaric, inhumane, and unacceptable, assuring the public that intelligence and tactical units have been deployed to the affected areas to apprehend the attackers and restore order.
“The situation is now under control,” Danjuma said.
“We have intensified security operations to prevent further attacks and ensure lasting peace in the region.”
The CP extended condolences to the families of the victims and prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured, urging the public to remain calm, vigilant, and cooperative.
He also appealed for useful information from residents to assist the ongoing investigations, encouraging them to contact the nearest police station or the command’s emergency lines.
