Oko community in Orumba North Local Government Area of Anambra State was thrown into chaos on Thursday night after unidentified gunmen launched a deadly assault near the Federal Polytechnic, Oko. The attack, which occurred around 8:40 p.m. near the busy Total and Tipper Junctions—close to the school’s main gate—claimed the lives of three students and left many others injured.
Two other individuals remain missing in the wake of the incident, which has been described as brutal and indiscriminate. Eyewitnesses reported that the assailants arrived on a motorcycle and in a black, unmarked Lexus 350 SUV, opening fire on students and passersby.
A viral video from the scene showed two victims, a male and a female student, lying in pools of blood and struggling to breathe, believed to be in a hospital.
Though the motive remains unconfirmed, sources suspect cult-related violence may have played a role.
Security Response and Police Statement
The Anambra State Police Command has deployed a joint armed security team, led by the Aguata Area Commander, to the affected areas. This task force includes personnel from the Nigerian Army, Navy, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and local vigilante groups. A manhunt has been launched to track down the attackers.
Confirming the incident, Police Spokesperson SP Tochukwu Ikenga said:
“Two victims, including a female, are currently receiving medical treatment in the hospital. Unfortunately, two lives were lost, and two others are reportedly abducted. We are acting on credible intelligence and eyewitness accounts to identify and apprehend the culprits.”
He urged the public to remain calm, assuring that updates will be provided as investigations progress.
Peter Obi Condemns Attack, Calls for National Security Overhaul
Former Anambra State Governor and 2023 Labour Party Presidential Candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, has strongly condemned the attack. In a post shared via his official X (formerly Twitter) account, Obi described the violence as “horrifying” and a stark reminder of the insecurity plaguing the nation.
“I am deeply saddened by the tragic attack on the learning environment of the Oko community near Federal Polytechnic, Oko. My heartfelt condolences go to the families of the deceased. My thoughts are with the injured and the entire community in this difficult time,” he wrote.
He criticized the growing trend of attacks on educational institutions, stating that schools—intended as safe spaces for learning—are now targets of violence.
“We must, as a matter of urgency, prioritize the safety of our citizens, especially our youth and educators who are vital to shaping the future.”
Obi called on the government and security agencies to act swiftly in apprehending the perpetrators and ensuring the safe return of those abducted.
Governor Otti Vows Crackdown on Resurgent Insecurity in Abia North
In a separate development, Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has pledged to take decisive action against criminal elements responsible for renewed insecurity in parts of Abia North, particularly the Isuikwuato and Umunneochi corridors.
Speaking during his monthly media briefing, Otti condemned the recent attack on the Commissioner for Lands and Housing, Mr. Chaka Chukwumerije, which occurred near the Umunneochi-Okigwe axis in Imo State. Though Chukwumerije escaped unhurt, the incident has raised alarm about the security situation in the region.
Otti confirmed multiple security breaches in Umunneochi and Isuikwuato, including an earlier raid in Ugwunagbo near Aba, where a criminal hideout was dismantled. The operation led to several arrests but unfortunately resulted in the death of a soldier.
“This government has zero tolerance for crime. We are committed to protecting lives and property. Any criminal operating in Abia must either leave or face the full force of the law,” the Governor said.
He emphasized that no development can occur without adequate security and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to restoring peace and order across the state.
