The Labour Party governorship candidate in Enugu in the 2023 general election, Chief Chijoke Edeoga, has decried the ceaseless attacks and killing of Enugu residents by suspected Fulani herdsmen.

Some gunmen suspected to be Fulani bandits were reported to have attacked Adani in Uzo-Uwani Local Government Area of Enugu State and killed two brothers on Sunday.

The victims, identified as Mr Ogbonna Fidelis Anene, 33, and Ogbonna John Onyeka, 25, were killed when they were going to their farms.

Also on the same Sunday, bandits invaded Ikem community in the Isi-Uzo LGA, killed a catechist of the Anglican church, injured two and kidnapped two others.

The Enugu State Police Command has confirmed the incident and vowed to apprehend the assailants.

Reacting in a statement on Wednesday, Edeoga said: “The recent attacks on the people of Ikem, Eha-Amufu, Isi Uzo LG, and most recently the people of Uzo Uwani, in Enugu State by herdsmen are deplorable acts of violence that cannot be tolerated. The senseless loss of lives and the infliction of harm upon innocent civilians are affronts to humanity and grave violations of peace and security.

“I call upon both the Enugu State and Federal governments to take immediate and decisive action to protect the people from such atrocities. It is the responsibility of the government to ensure the safety and security of its citizens, and any failure to do so is a betrayal of trust and an exhibition of incompetence.

“Furthermore, I urge the authorities to swiftly investigate this heinous act and bring the perpetrators to justice. Those responsible for instigating fear and perpetrating violence must be held accountable for their actions. Justice must be served to restore faith in the rule of law and to prevent further bloodshed.”

Meanwhile, the state Commissioner of Police, Kanayo Uzuegbu, who visited Adani community to commiserate with the victims’ family on Monday, vowed to track down the killer herders.

Uzuegbu expressed sadness over the ugly incident and assured the people of Adani that a crack squad had been sent after the perpetrators, while also reinforcing security in the border local government area. (Text, excluding headline: The PUNCH)

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