Killing of Soldiers: Residents flee, Markets, Schools, Worship Centres Shut Down In Abia Communities

By Peters Monday, Abuja

The arrival of military forces in Abia State, Nigeria has led to widespread closures of public facilities and displacement of residents, following the killing of five soldiers by suspected Biafra separatists.

Congress gathered that on Thursday, gunmen attacked a military checkpoint at Obikabia junction, Ogbor Hill in Obingwa Local Government Area, killing five soldiers and destroying two military vehicles. At least six civilians were also killed in the crossfire, as the separatists enforced a sit-at-home order to mark the 2024 Biafra Heroes Day.

In response to the attack, markets, schools, worship centers, and other public facilities have been shut down in fear of reprisal attacks and mass killings. The military deployment aims to apprehend the perpetrators and maintain order in the region.

The incident has escalated tensions in Abia State, with residents displacement reported in some areas. The identities of the soldiers killed have been officially released.