Ogona Anita
Gunmen yet to be identified have set multiple trucks ablaze in Imo State, triggering fear and chaos in Okigwe and Onuimo Local Government Areas as residents fled for safety amid the violence.
In a disturbing video obtained by SaharaReporters, several trucks were seen engulfed in flames, while bystanders expressing shock and sympathy as the fire raged.
However, the incident has deepened fears of escalating insecurity in the region.
Speaking to SaharaReporters on Thursday, a resident lamented the worsening security situation and criticised Governor Hope Uzodimma for what they described as neglect and insensitivity.
“Okigwe and Onuimo LGAs are burning while our governor is busy enjoying his brand-new private jet,” the source said.
“Lives and properties of Imolites are being destroyed by insecurity.”
The resident, who asked not to be named for security reasons, called on the governor to either take immediate action or delegate the responsibility of security to the local governments.
“Dear Governor, as you have proven to all that you’re incapable and incapacitated to handle the security challenges in Okigwe and Onuimo, kindly release full allocations to these LGAs to handle their security challenges by themselves — or resign,” the resident stated emotionally.
“Don’t you have human sympathy? Don’t you have human feelings? Are you comfortable with the pain and suffering of Imolites?”
The outcry did not end there.
Another resident questioned the conscience of the governor, asking whether the cries of the people mean anything to him.
“Governor Hope Uzodimma, please, where is your conscience? Are you not seeing or hearing the cry of the people you govern? What are the sins of the people against you that you’ve sworn to mercilessly deal with Imolites?” the source asked.
“People are being killed and properties are being destroyed daily, while you and your family are enjoying the state’s funds. If Imolites are completely destroyed and wiped out, who will you govern?”
VIDEO: Tension In Imo State As Gunmen Set Trucks Ablaze In Okigwe, Onuimo Council Areas pic.twitter.com/OlpWeC2Ng3
— Sahara Reporters (@SaharaReporters) May 8, 2025
Efforts to get a response from the Imo State Police Command were unsuccessful.
Calls to the Police Public Relations Officer, Henry Okoye, went unanswered as his phone was switched off, and he did not respond to a message sent to him as of press time.
However, the situation remains tense in the affected areas, with many residents reportedly fleeing for safety as fear of further attacks looms.
The motive behind the arson attacks remains unclear, and no group has claimed responsibility for the incident.
The residents, however, continue to demand urgent intervention from the government to restore peace and prevent further destruction.
