Imo residents shunned the streets on Thursday, August 1, during the planned nationwide hunger protest, opting to stay indoors due to what they called ˜fear of the unknown.

Some attributed their non-participation in the protest to the recent killings of five policemen and several civilians on Monday and Tuesday at various locations in the state.

As residents grappled with the aftermath of the killings, an exchange of gunfire occurred between armed hoodlums and security operatives on Thursday.

According to Ikenna Obiyor, a resident, Aside from fear, heavy downpours in the early hours of August 1, 2024, forced protesters to abandon their plans to storm the streets of Imo State, as torrential rains left the roads deserted. Although the rain was a factor, the roads remained eerily empty due to residents fear of the unknown.

Typically bustling streets like Wetheral Road, Douglas Road, and Bank Road were scanty, with offices and businesses closing their doors, adding to the sense of unease and uncertainty gripping the city.

Heavily armed patrol teams were stationed around strategic areas to forestall sudden attacks. (The Nation)