Five persons including women and children have been killed when suspected Fulani herdsmen attacked five village farm settlements in Mgbuji autonomous community, Eha-Amufu, Isi-Uzo Local Government Area of Enugu State,
According to PUNCH, the attackers invaded the community around 10am on Tuesday, January 4.
It was gathered that people carrying their belongings were seen running into the town from the troubled settlements.
At the residence of Chief Eric Ebe, one of the stakeholders in the town, over 50 women and children who reportedly escaped from the troubled farm settlements were seen in the compound.
Ebe, in an interview with PUNCH correspondent, described the invasion of his community as horrific and unwarranted.
He said since January 1, no fewer than 10 persons have been killed in his community while many others were kidnapped for ransom.
A community leader, Chief Moses Olinya, lamented that more than 24 hours after security agencies were informed of the invasion and carnage done, they were yet to see any security personnel.
Some displaced women appealed to the government to come to their aid.
The Chairman of Isi-Uzo Local Government Area, Jacob Abonyi, who confirmed the invasion, describing the frequent attacks on Mgbuji community as unacceptable,.
“When I got the information on Tuesday, I contacted the police but the Divisional Police Officer’s phone number was switched off and I immediately called the military,” he said.
“About five days ago, we were battling with kidnapping in same Mgbuji when the wife and daughter of Eugene Edeoga were kidnapped and they were just released on Monday.
“So, I called the military and we were ready this morning, including the Neighbourhood Watch and Forest Guard. Unfortunately, the soldiers that were already at Ikem said they got a call for another emergency from Uzo-Uwani and they decided to turn back and they have not returned
“That is the situation, but all our local security – Neighbourhood Watch and Forest Guards -are doing everything possible to calm the situation.” he added.
