Heavy Gunfire Rocks Ekwulobia This Morning as Residents Flee—Police Confirm Two Civilians Dead, One Attacker Neutralised

Masked gunmen clad in “mafia-style” gear stormed Ekwulobia, Aguata LGA, Anambra State early on Wednesday, July 9, 2025, unleashing a hail of bullets that sent terrified residents scattering for cover. Eyewitnesses report the attackers arrived in a convoy of Sienna SUVs before fleeing the scene.

Two civilians were tragically gunned down by the assailants, according to police. One attacker was also neutralised by security operatives who arrived on the scene amid chaotic gunfire. Officers recovered four vehicles believed to be used in the assault.

Villagers described a surreal scene: homes abruptly emptied, cars abandoned mid-road, and a pall of fear settling over the once-bustling town. Some residents have criticized the sluggish response from security agencies, calling into question the effectiveness of operations like Agunechemba and Udo Ga Achi.

A spokesperson for the Anambra Police Command, DSP Tochukwu Ikenga, confirmed the attack during a Tuesday briefing. He assured that the state Commissioner of Police, Ikioye Orutugu, immediately deployed tactical units to regain control and reinforce security across Ekwulobia and surrounding areas.

Locals are now calling on Governor Soludo to intensify efforts to combat the resurgence of armed groups. Some observers blame escalating tensions tied to separatist rhetoric and ritual violence for emboldening such factions .

This is the latest in a string of violent incidents across Anambra. Earlier this year, gunmen attacked areas near Awka and Ihiala, resulting in multiple deaths and raising accusations of IPOB/ESN involvement.

As Ekwulobia remains under heightened alert, security forces have been instructed to maintain a constant presence. Residents hope this latest intervention will deter future attacks and restore a fragile sense of normalcy.