By PAMELA EBOH, Awka

Gunmen on Thursday attacked and burnt the headquarters of Aguata Local Government Area, Anambra State, where the State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, hails from.

It was gathered that the gunmen, who came in motorbikes, commandeered a truck to block off the road, while they entered the secretariat, setting structures, shops and vehicles ablaze.

According to a resident of the area, who spoke on condition of anonymity, most shops inside the council secretariat were burnt, including the main secretariat building, which houses several departments.

He said: “After the gunmen that shot into the air for several minutes had gone, soldiers came in and started arresting Indigenes of the area.

“My house is just opposite the secretariat, we experienced everything that happened. Right now, I’m under my bed with my children, everyone is so afraid.

“We are not sure yet if there are casualties, but soldiers are already arresting youths of our community.”

Confirming the incident, the state Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Tochukwu Ikenga, said that policemen are already on ground and have commenced close monitoring of the area.

“We have also contacted the men of the Anambra Fire Service to put off the fire, and for now I can only say that details are still very sketchy.

“I cannot talk to you about casualty figures now, that will be after we have secured the place,” he added.

Soludo had on Wednesday called for dialogue with all armed groups, promising to grant the amnesty.

He also released the names of a fifteen man committee to lead the chase for peace in Anambra State and the entire South-East.