Several feared dead as soldiers, suspected IPOB members clash in Imo state
- The security situation in Imo state is currently tense following a civil disturbance by suspected secessionists
- Some fatalities and destruction of properties reportedly occurred in the fracas
- The Imo state government has imposed some measures to prevent the crisis from escalating
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A clash between Nigerian soldiers and security volunteers suspected to be members of the Indigenous Peoples of Biafra (IPOB) has reportedly left some people dead.
The Nation reported that the clash occurred in Okporo, Banana junction, Ogboosisi in Orlu local government area of Imo state on Monday, January 25.
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The publication reported that 10 people were feared dead as a result of the crisis while some houses were set on fire.
Vanguard newspaper which also carried the report stated that the soldiers that clashed with the suspected IPOB security volunteers were from the 34 Artillery Brigade in Obinze.
Eyewitnesses told the publication that the exchange of gunfire between both groups made the area like a war zone.
The Punch reported that four soldiers were allegedly killed by the hoodlums who launched their attack from the forest.
A source said:
"The men emerged from the bush, set part of the town on fire. They equally shot leading to the death of four soldiers.
“As we speak, military and policemen have taken over Orlu town. We are afraid of our lives. This is very unfortunate and we didn’t bargain for it.''
Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State has condemned the attack by gunmen in Orlu area of the state which led to the deaths of some people.
He also imposed a dusk-to-dawn curfew in 10 local government areas in the state to check the further breakdown of law in Orlu and other affected areas.
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The local government areas affected by the curfew are Orlu, Orsu, Oru East, Oru West, Ideato North and Ideato South.
Others are Njaba, Isu, Nwangele and Nkwere. Uzodinma said the curfew would hold between 6am and 6pm. daily till further notice.
Source: Legit.ng
