Many persons were feared killed on Sunday when suspected gunmen attacked Nawfia community in Njikoka Local Government Area of Anambra State.
The attack occurred around the Afor Market Junction, where the assailants reportedly opened fire on unsuspecting residents, throwing the area into chaos.
Eyewitnesses said the gunmen arrived suddenly and began shooting indiscriminately, forcing many residents and traders to flee for safety. Several people were said to have sustained fatal injuries, while others escaped with gunshot wounds.
A resident said the motive for the attack remained unclear.
He said, “The gunmen invaded the market junction and immediately started shooting. Many people were killed. Nobody knows why the attack happened and the entire community is in shock.”
Video clips circulating on social media showed residents running in different directions, while some lifeless bodies were seen lying in pools of blood.
The President General of the Nawfia Progressive Union, Chief Daniel Okoye, confirmed the incident in a statement and said security agencies had commenced investigation.
He said, “I received with deep shock the tragic news of the attack at Afor Market Junction in Nawfia community. The incident resulted in multiple casualties caused by unknown assailants.
“I strongly condemn this senseless act of violence. Relevant security agencies have been contacted and investigations are ongoing. I urge all residents to remain calm and cooperate with security operatives.”
The Anambra State Police Command spokesperson, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, could not be reached for official comment as of press time.
However, a police source confirmed that investigation had commenced and efforts were ongoing to arrest the perpetrators.
