Sit-at-Home Intensifies in Southeast Despite Simon Ekpa’s Arrest
The Monday sit-at-home order in Nigeria’s Southeast has escalated in severity despite the recent arrest of Simon Ekpa, accused of orchestrating attacks by armed enforcers of the directive.
In Abia State’s Umuchima village, Isiala Ngwa North Local Government Area, a heavy gun battle erupted between troops of the Nigerian Army’s 14 Brigade, Ohafia, and unidentified gunmen. The clash occurred near a river bordering Abia and Mbaise in Imo State early on Monday morning. Witnesses reported that soldiers arrived in over 15 vehicles, including armored personnel carriers, and blocked key junctions. The gunfire, which began around 6 a.m., forced many residents to flee their homes.
No casualties have been officially reported, and statements from the Nigerian Army or Abia State Government are still awaited. The confrontation comes after Governor Alex Otti recently pledged to intensify efforts to address insecurity in the state.
In Anambra State, gunmen attacked members of the State Vigilante Service along the Amesi-Uga Road in Aguata Local Government Area. The attackers injured one operative and set their operational vehicle on fire. The police responded quickly, rescuing the injured vigilante and intensifying patrols in the area to prevent further incidents.
Amid the ongoing insecurity, private and mission schools in Anambra that previously held classes on Mondays have suspended activities indefinitely. The Catholic Education Council cited security concerns and reports of threats against school buses and institutions operating on Mondays as reasons for the closure. Some schools have allowed special lessons for senior students on alternate days.
Commercial activities across parts of Anambra were also disrupted. Traders at the Awka main market shut their shops following rumors of an impending gunmen attack. The Anambra Innovation Week, which began on Monday, recorded low attendance as participants stayed away due to safety fears.
Meanwhile, kidnapped Anglican delegates from the Diocese of Isiala Ngwa, Abia State, have been reunited with their families. The group, traveling to Abuja for the Divine Commonwealth Conference, was abducted in Kogi State. Details regarding their release remain unclear, with no confirmation of police intervention or ransom payments. The Anglican community had mobilized prayers for their safety, and their return brought relief to concerned relatives and church members.
