Apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo has condemned the killing of five soldiers in Obikabia junction, Ogbor Hill in Aba, Abia State, by unknown gunmen.
Reacting to the incident in a statement on Friday, factional secretary-general of the Igbo umbrella body, Okechukwu Isiguzoro described it as barbaric, satanic and cruel.
The gunmen, who were said to have stormed the military unit at about 6:45am on Thursday, also burnt the unit as well as a patrol van parked in the premises while some of the soldiers reportedly escaped.
Isiguzoro extended his condolences to the Nigerian Army and families of the fallen soldiers.
The statement reads in part” With heavy hearts and profound sorrow, we stand in solidarity with all those affected by this tragedy. These brave warriors, who paid the ultimate sacrifice in service to their nation, were sons of Igbo land. The perpetrators of this heinous crime must face justice, for the blood of innocent Igbo soldiers cries out for retribution.
“Ohanaeze Ndigbo invokes the aid of all Igbo gods and deities to ensure that those responsible for this unspeakable deed are brought to account. We vehemently condemn the renewed spate of killings and attacks in Abia, particularly in the once-peaceful city of Aba.
“For seven years, Aba had been a beacon of tranquillity; it is disheartening to witness this peace shattered. We urgently implore President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene and quell the rising tensions in the Southeast.
“The South-East Governors seem overwhelmed by the security challenges, and immediate action is needed to restore calm and order. As we navigate this difficult moment, Ohanaeze Ndigbo calls for a return to non-violent and peaceful avenues of expression for Biafra agitators. Declarations of Sit At Home campaigns only serve to sow discord and strife.
“The regrettable killings of soldiers in Aba on May 30th, 2024, not only hamper efforts toward securing the release of Nnamdi Kanu but also cast a shadow over prospects for peace and justice.
“Ohanaeze urges the Nigerian Army to target the perpetrators while safeguarding innocent civilians and the citizens of Aba. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the Nigerian Army and the bereaved families, as we beseech divine strength and resilience upon them during this trying time.
