At least 15 residents of three Christian villages in Ebonyi State, south-eastern Nigeria, were killed in an attack by gunmen on Sunday 2 February.
Suspected Fulani Islamists attacked Amagu, Amaokwe and Umunesha in Nkaleha community, Ishielu Local Government Area early on Sunday morning. Initial reports indicated 10 people were killed and several houses burned down.
The bodies of five more villagers who tried to flee the scene were later recovered in the bush. It is feared that the death toll will rise further as other residents are still missing following the incident.
“We are still recovering the bodies of the casualties,” said the traditional ruler of Nkaleha community, Igwe Thompson Ebe. “Now, the number has increased to 15, and we are looking for two others.”
The Ebonyi State Deputy Governor, Princess Patricia Obila, visited the community on 4 February and urged the security forces in the state to find and apprehend the perpetrators within 24 hours.
On 5 February police issued a statement in which they claimed to have arrested one of the perpetrators, named as Maduabuchi Chimaobi Ebeh while he was attempting to flee. The suspect was able to direct police to the gunmen’s hideout where weapons were recovered, although the other perpetrators escaped arrest.
Pray that the Lord will comfort the Nkaleha community in their loss. Ask Him to grant the security forces success in bringing those responsible to justice. Pray that He will protect His people from such attacks throughout Nigeria.
