On Thursday morning, numerous individuals lost their lives when armed assailants blockaded a highway in the Okigwe Local Government Area of Imo State, in southeastern Nigeria. Reports indicate that the gunmen halted and subsequently set ablaze multiple vehicles along the Okigwe-Owerri Road, specifically between the communities of Umuna and Amuro. Umuna is located within the Onuimo Local Government Area, while Amuro is situated in the Okigwe Local Government Area of the state.

Multiple sources confirmed that the attackers killed numerous residents, particularly during an exchange of gunfire with security forces. Augustine Mbanusi, a local resident, stated that over 20 vehicles, primarily tippers and trucks, were set on fire by the assailants. He noted that while soldiers and police confronted the gunmen, approximately 30 people were killed, though the exact number of casualties remains unconfirmed. Mbanusi emphasized that the majority of the deceased were those whose vehicles had been burned.

A video circulating on Facebook depicted several trucks engulfed in flames along the road. Voices in the background suggested that some travelers were still trapped inside the burning vehicles. One voice was heard expressing the need for water to rescue those trapped, while another resident noted that at least one person had already died.

The Imo State Police have acknowledged the attack and killings. Police spokesperson Henry Okoye reported that the hoodlums, operating in three separate groups, blockaded the highway and attacked travelers, firing randomly and setting vehicles, including trucks and motorcycles, on fire. Okoye confirmed reports of human casualties but did not specify the number of victims. He stated that the attackers are suspected to be members of the outlawed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).

Commissioner of Police in Imo State, Aboki Danjuma, led a joint tactical team comprising personnel from the Nigerian Army, the police, and the State Security Service to the scene. The team provided immediate support to victims and initiated a comprehensive operation to track down and arrest the suspects. A full-scale search is underway, with security operatives combing nearby forests and surrounding areas. Danjuma condemned the attack as a “cowardly act of terror” and urged residents to remain calm, law-abiding, and cooperative with security agencies.

Security has deteriorated in Imo State and other states in Nigeria’s south-east, marked by frequent attacks by armed persons targeting security agencies, government officials, and facilities. Hundreds have been killed or abducted in these attacks. The Nigerian government has repeatedly accused IPOB of being responsible for the violence, a claim the group denies. IPOB is advocating for an independent state of Biafra carved out from the south-east and parts of the south-south Nigeria.