Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, has ordered the closure of schools in the Nnewi zone for a week due to heightened security concerns surrounding the burial of Senator Ifeanyi Ubah.
This decision follows a series of threats from non-state actors to disrupt activities in the state unless certain unresolved issues were addressed prior to the burial. The tension escalated dramatically on Wednesday night when gunmen attacked Nnewi, killing multiple individuals and setting a vehicle ablaze. The incident, which occurred around 7:30 p.m., caused widespread panic, with residents fleeing for safety.
The burial of Senator Ubah is scheduled for Friday in his hometown, Umuanuka village, Otolo Nnewi. In a precautionary move, the state government circulated a directive via WhatsApp to principals and parents, instructing all schools in the zone to remain closed from Thursday through Tuesday next week.
Parents of day students were advised to keep their children at home, with messages warning against students being found loitering in their uniforms. Amid speculation that the attack was linked to the burial, the Anambra State Police Command has refuted the claims. Police Public Relations Officer, Superintendent Tochukwu Ikenga, clarified that the gunmen involved in the incident were not non-state actors as rumored.
Ikenga explained that the incident stemmed from a confrontation at a security checkpoint while operatives were trailing a suspect. The exchange of gunfire resulted in a Toyota Venza Sedan catching fire, injuring two bystanders who are currently receiving medical care.
The command assured the public of reinforced security in Nnewi, with Joint Security Forces (JSF) deployed to maintain peace during the burial.
“Preliminary investigations reveal this incident was unrelated to the burial ceremonies of Senator Ifeanyi Ubah. We urge residents to remain calm and allow the authorities to conclude their investigations,” Ikenga stated.
Despite these reassurances, tension remains high as Nnewi braces for Friday’s burial amidst an atmosphere of uncertainty and tightened security measures.
