Enugu community cries out over repeated attacks by armed herders

Residents of the Onolieze community in Ugwuleshi, Awgu Local Government Area of Enugu State have raised alarm over frequent attacks by armed herders. They say many people have been killed and some women raped, and they are begging the state government to step in and protect them.

The community called on Peter Mbah to urgently intervene and save their people. According to them, the attacks have made it unsafe to go to their farms or even move freely within the community.

Over the weekend, residents blocked the busy Enugu Port Harcourt Highway for several hours to protest the killings and draw attention to their suffering. They carried placards and green leaves during the protest.

The protest followed the killing of a community member, Ogechukwu Mba, who was shot dead while trying to escape during an attack on his farm by armed herders.

In a statement titled “A Clarion Call for Justice and Security in Onolieze, Enugu State”, released on Wednesday, the community also appealed to the federal government and the international community to help address the security problems in the area.

They said that for a long time, Onolieze and nearby villages have faced unprovoked violence. These repeated attacks have led to loss of lives, families being forced to flee their homes, and the destruction of the community’s way of life.

The insecurity has badly affected farmers, who depend on farming to survive. Many of them are now afraid to work on their farms because of the constant fear of being attacked or killed. The community said this is not just a security issue but a serious violation of their right to live in safety.

Community leaders said that anger alone will not protect their people and that the government must now take full responsibility for their security. They added that the cries of grieving families in Awgu should no longer be ignored.

While stressing that they believe in peace, unity, and lawful actions, the community said they have reached their limit and can no longer endure the situation.

They called on the Enugu State Government and federal security agencies to urgently send more security personnel to the area, work closely with the community to gather intelligence and prevent attacks, and set up either a mini army barracks or a full police division in Onolieze to ensure lasting security. This, they said, will allow displaced farmers to return to their farms without fear.

The community also honoured those who were killed while trying to protect their farms and homes, describing them as brave people whose sacrifices give them strength.

Finally, they urged everyone to remain calm and avoid violence, saying they believe that with strong government action and collective effort, peace and safety will return to Ugwuleshi.